BANGKOK, Thailand – The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Center has announced that the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) will waive September electricity charges and apply a 30% discount for October bills in flood-affected areas eligible for compensation. According to the center’s spokesperson, Jirayu Huangsap, residents who have already paid their bills for both months will have the amounts deducted from their November bills. The PEA is coordinating with local government bodies to verify the affected areas, and residents seeking further information are advised to contact the PEA hotline.
Jirayu said the center is closely monitoring rising water levels along the lower Chao Phraya River, where recent rainfall has caused slight increases in water levels above the Chao Phraya Dam. The provinces of Uthai Thani and Chai Nat are now at risk of being affected, with water levels in these areas expected to rise by at least 10 centimeters, impacting riverside communities outside flood dikes. The Royal Irrigation Department has since adjusted water flow management to reduce risks and prevent further flooding.
Additionally, Tropical Storm “Trami” is making its way westward across the South China Sea and is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to northeastern Thailand. The provinces of Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, Yasothon, Ubon Ratchathani, and Si Sa Ket are most at risk, while southern regions, particularly along the Andaman coast, may also be impacted as the storm moves toward the Vietnamese coast. Cooler temperatures are forecast for northern and northeastern Thailand starting October 30.
Heavy rains are forecasted across various regions between October 26 and 28, increasing the risk of flooding. Southern areas include Phuket’s Thalang and capital districts, La-ngu, Thung Wa, and Khuan Kalong districts in Satun, Ko Lanta in Krabi, and Palian district in Trang. In eastern Thailand, Ko Kut and Khlong Yai districts in Trat are expected to be affected. Western areas include Chom Bueng, Bo Phloi, and Si Sawat districts in Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi. Northern regions facing flood risks include Thong Saen Khan and the capital districts in Uttaradit, Chat Trakan in Phitsanulok, Mae Sariang in Mae Hong Son, and Phetchabun’s capital district.
Residents in these areas are urged to stay alert and monitor weather updates as the situation develops. (NNT)
