Two Dead as Nan Province Floods Worsen
Severe flooding in Nan province's Pua district has killed two people and affected over 16,000 residents across seven subdistricts, with floodwaters now moving toward Tha Wang Pha district as heavy rains continue through August 21.
Flooding in Pua district, Nan province, has affected seven subdistricts, 60 villages, and 8,000 households, with over 16,000 people facing hardship. Two deaths have been reported: the first victim was a bedridden patient living with his mother in Moo 8, Sila Phet subdistrict, Pua district, who was swept away by floodwaters; the second was a male aged 45–50 found by the Petchkasem Foundation near Baan Fai Mool in Paa Kha subdistrict, Tha Wang Pha district.
Flooding has also been reported in Santhisuk and Mae Chrim districts. While water levels in Pua district have begun to recede, the floodwaters are moving toward Tha Wang Pha district, with communities along the Nan River and tributary streams at risk of sudden inundation. A red alert has been issued for Chiang Yuen and Nao Tao villages in Tha Wang Pha district, where water levels continue to rise. The lower Worakon Road near Tha Wang Pha market is now impassable, and four vulnerable patients have been evacuated from Baan Fai Mool.
Nan Municipality is using sandbags and big bags to seal gaps behind the Namloam community to prevent floodwaters from inundating Nan Hospital. Surappol Thiersutr, mayor of Nan Municipality, warned that the monsoon system is expected to bring continued heavy rainfall through August 21, with some areas receiving over 200 millimeters and Pua district over 300 millimeters. Water levels could potentially reach those seen in 2006. The municipality is running pumps at full capacity, sealing weak points, and has opened temporary shelters. The Nakhon Nan Development Bridge is set to close at 4:00 p.m. due to rising water levels. Additionally, Highway 1256 between Pua and Doi Phu Ka National Park has been closed following reports of multiple high-voltage power poles downed and tilted—15 poles have fallen and approximately 23 are leaning.
