East, South warned to brace for floods until July 20

Fifteen provinces in the eastern and southern regions of Thailand have been urged to watch out for natural disasters that could be triggered by heavy rains during July 16-20.

Interior Minister Gen Anupong Paochinda said he has assigned the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) to coordinate with the governors of 15 provinces in the East and the South in making preparations for possible flooding and landslides between July 16 and 20.

The provinces at risk consist of Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, Trat, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Satun, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi and Trang.

Sewers, especially in urban areas, are to be cleaned by officials as a way to increase drainage capacity. The conditions of reservoirs and buildings will also be inspected to ensure their structural integrity while weather surveillance teams and rapid response units will be on standby around the clock.

Meanwhile, DDPM Chief Chatchai Promlert advised local residents in the 15 provinces to stay up-to-date with weather forecasts and disaster warnings. Small boats should also be kept ashore during this period.

NNT

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