At least 33 people dead as floods submerge large areas of northern Thailand
Image credit: Khaoson
Floods from torrential rains swept northern Thailand killing at least 33 residents, reports said on September 16. The violent rain was spawned by two tropical storms – Podul and Kajiki – which caused an impact on 28 provinces, with Isan region as the worst-hit area.
Reports said that the water levels reached up to 5 meters high (16 ft).
Majority of the evacuees and fatalities were from the low-lying province of Ubon Ratchathani. The area was said to be almost consumed by floodwaters.
The harsh waters so far destroyed 4 000 houses and 325 000 ha (803 092 acres) of crops.
More than 22 000 people were evacuated in the region, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
One of the casualties was a rescue volunteer, the department confirmed.
The victim was identified as Damrongsak Jeadprakhon, who succumbed from a lung infection contracted from while assisting people affected by the flood.
“I’d like to express my condolences to Damrongsak Jeadprakhon, a volunteer who gave his life while on duty in Ubon Ratchathani. Thank you for your sacrifice for your fellow Thais,” Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said.
Anutin added that the government will provide support for Damrongsak's family.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office said that families with ravaged farms and homes will be eligible for a payout of 50 000 baht ($1 638) per household.
On September 16, a group of volunteers from the province of Nakhon Phanom provided food and supplies to the victims.
The volunteers expressed the desire to help as according to them, they know how the situation felt when their province was also submerged in floods for two months in 2017.
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