BANGKOK: More than 17,230 families have been affected by severe flooding in Thailand’s Ratchaburi province after heavy monsoon rains and high water discharge caused the Mae Klong River to overflow, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).
Flooding has affected eight districts — Pho Tharam, Bang Phe, Damnoen Saduak, Ban Pong, Wat Phleng, Chom Bung, Pak Tho and Suan Phueng. The latest DDPM report said at least 16,490 households remained affected, although water levels have begun to recede slowly.
The flooding followed high water levels at the Mae Klong Dam, which exceeded 1,100 million cubic metres, while the Srinakarin Dam reached 95.55% of its capacity. Low-lying areas along the river were subsequently inundated.
Officials said the gradual fall in water levels was partly influenced by tidal conditions in neighbouring Samut Songkhram province, where flooding has affected another 22,357 families.
A senior official of the Ratchaburi Provincial Administration said the situation was under control but authorities remained on high alert. District chiefs have been ordered to remain on duty around the clock, while water pumps and evacuation centres have been put in place.
In Pho Tharam and Damnoen Saduak, residents reported floodwater entering homes and shops, with water levels reaching 50–80 cm in some areas. Shopkeepers were forced to move goods and belongings to higher ground. The popular Damnoen Saduak floating market has also been temporarily closed to tourists.
The National Water Resources Office has warned of further heavy rainfall in Phetchaburi and Kanchanaburi between October 5 and 8. The additional rainfall could lead to water being released from the Kaeng Krachan Dam, authorities said.
The DDPM has urged people living in low-lying areas to move valuables to higher floors, prepare emergency kits and closely follow official announcements.
Flood relief and response operations are being conducted jointly by the military, local authorities and volunteers.
The current alert level in Ratchaburi is Yellow, with water levels receding. No casualties have been reported in the province so far.
