Nan: The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) is intensifying restoration efforts in Nan Province, anticipating the influx of water into the Sirikit Dam tomorrow, while monitoring for additional rainfall predicted for August 23rd.
According to Thai News Agency, the DDPM expects water from Pua District to reach Sirikit Dam shortly. Following directives from the Prime Minister, restoration operations in Nan Province are being expedited, with graders and water trucks deployed to cleanse the city. The agency is on high alert for a new wave of rain expected on August 23rd, advising close observation of northern zones. Emergency funds have been earmarked to provide flood relief payments, with potential disbursements of up to 88,600 baht per household.
Mr. Teerapat Khachamat, Director-General of the DDPM, detailed the recovery efforts in Nan Province, noting that the Governor of Nan has a recovery plan in place, which includes a major cleaning operation from Pua District down to Tha Wang Pha, Phu Wiang, Mueang, and Wiang Sa Districts. The cleanup includes the removal of knee-deep mud and water from roads and homes, with machinery and vehicles from various sectors aiding in the operation. The situation is classified as a Level 2 disaster, overseen by the Governor of Nan Province, with resources mobilized to restore normalcy swiftly.
Addressing concerns about the movement of heavy machinery due to mountainous terrain and partially cut-off roads, Mr. Teerapat assured that main roads remain unaffected and travel between districts and provinces continues unimpeded. The DDPM is coordinating closely with local authorities and monitoring weather conditions in collaboration with national agencies to mitigate any potential disruptions from the anticipated rainfall.
Regarding the immediate return of residents to their homes, Mr. Teerapat mentioned that some villagers have been evacuated but are eager to return once conditions permit. The government is committed to assisting with home restorations and ensuring that flood relief measures are effectively implemented. Broadcast warnings about heavy rain and rising water levels have been issued, urging residents to move belongings to higher ground and evacuate if necessary.
Mr. Teerapat confirmed that floodwaters are beginning to impact northern provinces such as Tak and Mae Hong Son, with preemptive measures in place to address these developments. The DDPM is actively disseminating warnings and coordinating evacuations to safeguard residents. He also reported fatalities in Pua, Tha Wang Pha, and Mueang Districts, with an additional incident under investigation.
Discussing the flood relief efforts, Mr. Teerapat highlighted that the Governor of Nan Province has prepared for relief distribution in line with government regulations, with compensation based on damage assessments. The relief budget will be sourced from the Governor's contingency fund, with possible discussions regarding vehicle damage involving the Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC). The compensation criteria have recently been updated to reflect increased amounts from previous standards.