Heavy Rain Floods Khao Yai Cafe, Dam Capacity Still Below 50%

Heavy rainfall continues to batter Nakhon Ratchasima province, prompting close monitoring by authorities. The irrigation department reports that four major dams—Lamtakong, Lam Phra Phloeng, Mul Bon, and Lam Chae—are holding water at less than 50% of maximum capacity, with substantial storage room remaining. However, three medium-sized reservoirs have exceeded capacity and are overflowing continuously through their spillways, causing flash flooding in low-lying agricultural areas.

District officials conducted field inspections in Khao Yai National Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and water source for the Lamtakong River system. Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall have inundated natural waterways across five subdistricts in Pakchong District, affecting 20 homes across five villages. Emergency responders rescued four residents—two men, one woman, and one child—trapped in floodwaters in Nong Mai Daeng village. They have been relocated to temporary shelter at the Phatyaen Subdistrict Administrative Organization and provided with food, drinking water, and supplies for the young child.

Authorities are maintaining heightened alert status and have warned residents living near waterways to move valuables to higher ground in preparation for further rainfall. Local governments, particularly Pakchong Municipality, have deployed water pumps in vulnerable areas and prepared sandbags, with staff on 24-hour standby. Meanwhile, Ile Cafe & Camping Khao Yai announced temporary closure due to rapidly rising floodwaters and unpredictable conditions, prioritizing guest safety until the situation stabilizes.