Weather officials warn of heavy rain, possible floods in 20 provinces

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LAMPANG, Sept 4 – Thailand’s Meteorological Department today warned that heavy rain is likely in various parts of upper Thailand and local residents should beware of flash flood through Thursday.

Provinces at risk include Mae Hong Son, Phayao, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnart Charoen, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Lop Buri and Sara Buri.

Heavy downpours which triggered flash floods here forced the evacuation of villagers in Lampang’ s Mae Mo district, while Chiang Mai residents have also been warned of the possibility of flooding due to heavy rain.

Mae Mo district chief Narin Wannamahin ordered the evacuation of residents in two sub-districts –Sop Pad and Mae Mo–after forest run-off during the night. Torrential rains also cut main road connects Sop Pad subdistrict with the district seat.

The district chief said heavy rain continued in Mae Mo district, raising the level of floodwaters up to one metre deep. Local residents were ordered to evacuate to safer areas.

A mother with her 10-day newborn baby was also evacuated this morning.

Meanwhile, Chiang Mai Disaster Prevention and Mitigation chief Komsan Suwanampa said local residents were advised to be alert for heavy rain and forest runoff around the clock, particularly those living in Hang Dong, Samoeng, Chom Thong and Fang districts.