SUKHOTHAI, Thailand – A massive surge of water from the Yom River, originating from Wang Chin district in Phrae province, has inundated homes in the northern districts of Sukhothai, including Sawankhalok and Sri Samrong, after flood barriers collapsed at multiple points on August 26.
In some areas, floodwaters have reached nearly the second floor of houses. However, the economic heart of Sukhothai city has so far remained unscathed.
Villages in Sri Samrong district have seen their roads submerged, although not as severely as the inundated homes in lower-lying areas. With water levels exceeding two meters and nearly reaching the second floor, many residents have been caught off guard by the sudden and rapid rise of floodwaters, especially considering the frequency of flooding in the area. Concerns are mounting over potential structural damage to homes and crop losses.
Aerial images reveal numerous breaches in the dikes and riverbanks, allowing the Yom River, with its water level at 11 meters, to inundate the area with tremendous force. The relentless influx of water from the north has exacerbated the situation.
Similarly, several areas in Sawankhalok district, located approximately 20 kilometers north of Sri Samrong, have experienced widespread flooding of homes and agricultural land due to the overflow of the Yom River.
As a result, the commercial and economic zones of Sukhothai city, situated to the south, have remained relatively unaffected. The water level passing through the city has stabilized at 7.68 meters, approximately 30 centimeters below the critical level.
Sukhothai province is grappling with a severe flooding crisis, with the peak water level expected to occur on August 27.
Officials are hopeful that the situation will improve, mitigating the risk of a more catastrophic flood.
Jakkapong Saengmani, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, has assured the public that this year’s water levels are lower than those in 2011 and that Bangkok will not experience flooding.
He emphasized that comprehensive water management measures have been implemented, with various agencies working together to expedite water drainage and provide relief to affected areas.
In Sukhothai, the highest water level in the Yom River is anticipated on August 27. If the situation can be managed, the province’s vital economic areas can be preserved. (TNA)
