NAKHON SI THAMMARAT, Thailand – Torrential rains have caused widespread flooding in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, with the districts of Thasala and Sichon bearing the brunt of the disaster, Dec 16. The death toll from the floods has risen to four, as a man was reported to have drowned in the city area.
In Thasala district, the surging waters have overflowed a bridge and submerge nearby communities. Power lines have been brought down, leaving many areas in darkness. Roads connecting Thasala and Sichon districts have been inundated, making them impassable to vehicles. Similarly, sections of the Asian Highway leading from Sichon to Nakhon Si Thamrat city have been cut off, forcing authorities to close the road completely to smaller vehicles.
In the provincial seat, Nakhon Si Thamrat, the economic hub of Phatthanakarn Ku Khwang Road has been inundated, with water levels reaching between 50 and 70 centimeters, forcing businesses to close temporarily. Lower-lying communities in the municipal area have been flooded to depths of over one meter.
At Maharat Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital, rapid flooding has submerged the road in front of the hospital. Within an hour, water levels rose by 50 to 70 centimeters, making it difficult for vehicles to pass. Authorities have placed sandbags at the hospital’s entrance. The airport road has also been affected, with water levels reaching 30 centimeters. (TNA)