Storms damage more than 350 homes in Khon Kaen, evacuation sites prepared

KHON KAEN — 1 May 2026, Authorities in Khon Kaen are accelerating assistance to more than 350 households after overnight summer storms battered the area, prompting orders for all districts to identify safe zones and evacuate residents from high-risk locations as unstable weather continues.

Pichai Wanta, district chief of Mueang Khon Kaen, said rapid response units and volunteer defence personnel are coordinating with local administrative organisations across all 17 subdistricts to survey damage and assist affected residents. The storms brought strong winds and heavy rain, damaging homes across multiple areas.

Initial assessments indicate that more than 200 homes were damaged in Don Han alone.

"Overall, in Mueang Khon Kaen district, more than 350 households have been affected by storms over the past two days. The most severe impact was in Don Han," he said. "In urban areas, damage has been more limited, mostly involving fallen signage, trees blocking roads, and downed electricity poles."

Municipalities and subdistrict administrative organisations have been instructed to complete damage assessments and report findings to the district office to facilitate assistance in accordance with Ministry of Interior regulations, with further coordination involving the Red Cross.

Authorities across all subdistricts and the Khon Kaen Municipality have prepared designated safe locations to serve as evacuation centres and temporary shelters. Officials will continue monitoring conditions throughout the weekend.

Each subdistrict has deployed officials, including assistant district officers, to remain on standby and provide immediate assistance in the event of further storms or strong winds, operating around the clock. Residents experiencing delays or gaps in assistance have been advised to contact the Mueang Khon Kaen district office directly for urgent support.