Ratchaburi:Flash floods have swept through Ratchaburi, affecting villagers and monks and leading to dramatic rescue operations. The floods, which struck suddenly, nearly overwhelmed several people, but timely interventions by officials prevented a tragedy. In Pak Tho district, five sub-districts reported significant impacts from the floodwaters.
According to Thai News Agency, one notable rescue involved Mr. Phutthapong Suriyasingh, Deputy Governor of Ratchaburi Province, who led efforts to save an elderly man clinging to a tree amidst fast-flowing waters. Using ropes, they secured the man and successfully pulled him to safety before exhaustion could claim him.
In another incident, a car carrying monks and nuns was swept into a stream near Wat Pa Maha Uthumphorn in Huai Yang Thon Subdistrict. The passengers had to abandon the vehicle and cling to branches to survive. Governor Ms. Thitilak Khampa coordinated the rescue, deploying water rescue teams despite challenging conditions. Eventually, seven monks and one nun were saved, though one monk required additional efforts to reach safety.
Heavy rainfall in Ratchaburi has resulted in flash floods inundating roads, particularly affecting the sub-districts of Yang Hak, Thung Luang, Nong Krathum, Huai Yang Thon, and Wang Manow.
In Phetchaburi province, torrential rains lasting over seven hours caused flash floods in Nong Ya Plong and Khao Yoi districts, leading to waist-high water levels and impassable roads. Phetchaburi city experienced significant flooding, with key roads submerged, causing traffic disruptions. Although water levels began to recede in the afternoon, certain routes remained closed due to safety concerns.
Kanchanaburi city also faced heavy rain, resulting in flooding on major roads like Saeng Chuto Road and Highway 324. Traffic was severely impacted, with emergency services deployed to assist stranded vehicles. Authorities warned the public to avoid submerged electrical poles due to the risk of electric shock.
Despite the high capacity levels of Vajiralongkorn Dam and Srinakarin Dam, the Irrigation Department assured that both structures are safe, with controlled water releases underway. Kanchanaburi is expected to experience further thunderstorms, and residents are advised to stay informed about the weather conditions.