BANGKOK: Rescuers evacuated bedridden patients through strong flood currents in Thailand’s Khao Yoi district, Phetchaburi, late on Sunday (Oct 11), after water flowing from Ratchaburi inundated communities and affected almost 100 households.
The rescue teams brought all patients requiring assistance in the operation out of their flooded homes. Deep water and powerful currents made the evacuations difficult, requiring particular care when moving people unable to walk or leave without help.
Rescue teams assist three Khao Yoi communities
Rescuers from Phetchaburi’s Sawang Sanphet Thammasathan Foundation, the Ruamkatanyu Foundation and volunteers from neighbouring areas were assisting residents at 11.47pm. The operation covered three communities in Khao Yoi:
- Village 2, Ban Wat Pho
- Village 4, Ban Bang Khem Phatthana
- Village 6, Ban Lang
Flooding affected almost 100 households in the communities, disrupting daily life and travel. Older residents, patients and people requiring additional assistance needed close attention while conditions remained concerning.
Water from Ratchaburi raises flood levels
Rescue worker Phongsakorn Thomphanomphon said the affected community beside Wat Kuti Bang Khem had about 100 households. Water levels had risen steadily since the evening as floodwater arrived from Nong Chumphon Nuea subdistrict, which had received water flowing from Ratchaburi.
The overnight report also warned of a high tide expected at about 2am, raising concern about its potential effect on drainage. Residents were advised to follow information from the relevant agencies closely.
Some residents remain as rescuers prepare for further rises
Rescue teams continued helping patients and older residents leave vulnerable areas, while also moving belongings and other possessions to higher ground.
Some residents declined to evacuate because they were concerned about their homes and property. Rescue teams therefore stationed personnel at key locations and monitored conditions, ready to provide immediate help if rising water threatened residents’ safety.
Phongsakorn said information available to rescuers indicated that water levels were expected to rise further, although the extent of any increase remained unclear. The rescue worker stressed that currents were particularly strong and urged residents to monitor developments closely and prioritise their lives and safety. - The Nation/ANN
