Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya:Bang Bal Floodwaters have severely impacted the Bang Bal District in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, reaching the second floor of homes and forcing residents to seek shelter on roadsides.
According to Thai News Agency, the Chao Phraya Dam has reduced its water discharge to 2,100 cubic meters per second, but low-lying areas along the riverbanks, particularly in Bang Luang Doi Subdistrict, continue to suffer from severe flooding. Water levels have risen to between 2 and 2.5 meters, completely submerging some homes. The community's water supply system has been disrupted, and residents are dealing with unbearable conditions due to the combination of extreme heat and sunlight reflecting off the water.
Families have resorted to setting up tents along roadsides to escape the heat and protect their vehicles from floodwaters. Sanitation remains a challenge; residents must use boats to reach temporary roadside toilets. As residents endure these conditions, they are urging authorities to provide clean drinking water and improved sanitation services, having been caught off guard by the sudden flooding nearly a month ago.
In Chai Nat province, conditions are improving with a decrease in water flow through Nakhon Sawan province. The Chao Phraya Dam in Chai Nat has further reduced its downstream discharge, helping to lower water levels by approximately 15 centimeters. However, residents remain cautious due to forecasts of heavy rain, fearing a potential increase in water discharge and a second wave of flooding. They also express concerns regarding government compensation, hoping for an increase to better manage post-flood expenses.
Meanwhile, in Ang Thong province, six districts are affected by flooding, impacting over 2,200 households. Despite a slight decrease in water levels, low-lying areas remain heavily flooded. Amidst these challenges, local barber Patcharapol Sawangduen has shown resilience by relocating his barbershop to a tent for flood victims, providing essential services and maintaining an income during the crisis.