Thailand: Government warns of possible flooding along Mekong /update 4

Event

Thai authorities warned of possible floodwaters up to 11 meters (36 feet) on the Mekong River and its tributaries due to heavy rains from Tropical Storm Son-Tinh on Thursday, July 26. Residents in Nakhon Phanom province in northeastern Thailand prepared for a possible breach of the riverbanks. Additionally, authorities warned residents in the western Thailand's Kanchanaburi province. Residents downstream of the Vajiralongkorn Dam, along the Khwae Noi and Mae Klong rivers, were specifically warned as dam authorities prepared to increase the dam discharge to alleviate high reservoir levels.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, prepare for transportation disruptions in low-lying areas, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.