BANGKOK, 3 July 2012 -The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued a warning for residents in 16 provinces nationwide to brace for heavy rains and flash floods today and tomorrow.
DDPM’s Director-General, Wiboon Sanguanpong, has said a strong monsoon trough prevailing over the Northern and upper Northeastern part of Thailand has caused torrential rainfall and severe storms, which could later trigger flash-flooding in flood-prone areas.
Residents living near hillsides and waterways in Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Loei, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan and Ubon Ratchathani have been urged to be prepared for widespread scattered heavy rain and flash floods on July 3-4.
Affected residents have been advised to closely follow the weather updates and to keep alert for natural warning signs of flash flooding.
Mr Wiboon said the department has instructed provincial authorities and local DDPM offices in 16 affected provinces to closely monitor the situation.
Flood victims are urged to contact their local DDPM office or to call their 1784 hotline for further assistance.
