Bangkok: Deputy Minister of Interior 2 has expressed deep concern over the situation in Nan Province as water levels surged by 30 cm within just one hour due to the effects of Storm Wipha. The Ministry of Interior held an emergency meeting to address the risks posed by the storm, particularly in the North-Northeast regions and lowland areas near mountains, which are vulnerable to flash floods and mudslides. Officials have been instructed to prioritize the safety of lives and property, including those on duty, and urgent measures are being implemented to mitigate the impact.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Thirat Rattanawanich, Deputy Minister of Interior, chaired a meeting of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (DDPM) to establish a war room for monitoring Storm Wipha. The meeting, attended by Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Minister of Interior and Acting Prime Minister, and other relevant agencies, focused on assessing the storm’s impact over the past 24 hours across northern and northeastern provinces. Continuous rainfall has been reported, leading to increased water levels in major rivers and posing a threat to homes near riverbanks.
Ms. Thirat emphasized the severity of the storm, particularly in Nan Province, urging residents to relocate their belongings to higher ground and prepare for potential evacuations. The 38th Military Circle has been deployed to assist the people of Nan, and additional water pumps have been ordered to manage water levels. The situation in Phayao Province is also being monitored closely, with continuous rain raising concerns about rising water levels.
In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces, preparations have been made to handle the situation efficiently. The Royal Irrigation Department has ensured that dams are ready to manage incoming water, minimizing the potential impact on residents. A water forecast for the next 3-5 days indicates that residents should be vigilant and avoid routes prone to flooding.
Efforts to assist disaster victims are in full swing, with a focus on ensuring public safety and supporting affected communities. Ms. Thirat has called for proactive measures to prevent mudslides, especially in areas with heavy rainfall. Provincial and district command centers have been established to coordinate emergency responses, provide relief supplies, and address public safety concerns, including the prevention of crime and theft.
The Ministry of Interior’s warning center operates around the clock, issuing alerts to prepare residents for potential risks. Ms. Thirat highlighted the need for continued cooperation between agencies and local authorities to ensure timely responses and effective communication with the public. Travel routes in Nan Province are being monitored, with advisories issued to travelers regarding potential disruptions.
As the storm continues to pose challenges, Ms. Thirat plans to visit Chiang Rai and Nan provinces to assess the situation firsthand, offer support to affected communities, and ensure the safety of both residents and officials on the ground.