Ratchaburi:Flash floods have devastated parts of Ratchaburi, sweeping away villagers and a monk in a torrent of water. Quick response by officials prevented further exhaustion and potential tragedy. In Pak Tho district, five sub-districts have reported significant impact from the flooding.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Governor of Ratchaburi Province, Mr. Phutthapong Suriyasingh, led a rescue operation to save an elderly man who was swept away by the strong floodwaters. The man managed to cling to a tree, and with the help of a rope secured to a vehicle, he was pulled to safety.
In another incident in the Huai Yang Thon Subdistrict, a vehicle carrying monks and nuns was swept into a stream. The passengers abandoned the car and clung to trees to survive. The Governor of Ratchaburi Province, Ms. Thitilak Khampa, oversaw the rescue operation, which involved deploying water rescue teams and boats. Despite challenges posed by strong currents, seven monks and one nun were successfully rescued. One monk remained in the water, requiring a more complex rescue involving ropes and boats.
The heavy rainfall has led to sudden flash floods, affecting roads in Pak Tho district, with Yang Hak, Thung Luang, Nong Krathum, Huai Yang Thon, and Wang Manow sub-districts reported as affected areas.
In Phetchaburi province, continuous rain lasting over seven hours caused flash floods in Nong Ya Plong and Khao Yoi districts. The floods reached waist-high in some areas, leading to road closures and significant disruption. Phetchaburi city saw economic zones and key roads submerged under 30-40 centimeters of water. Phetkasem Road experienced congestion due to flooding, while Ban Dai It and Ban Lat underpasses were submerged, stranding vehicles.
In Kanchanaburi city, heavy rain caused flooding on major roads, including Saeng Chuto Road and Highway 324. The floods resulted in vehicle breakdowns and traffic jams. Authorities warned against approaching submerged electrical poles due to the risk of electric shock. Despite high water levels, Vajiralongkorn and Srinakarin Dams remain stable, with water being released as planned.
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates, as thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected to continue across the region.