Nan flood death toll rises to three as water levels recede

The death toll from flooding in Nan province has risen to three as water levels continue to recede in several areas and authorities begin restoring electricity and tap-water services.

Flood conditions were gradually easing on Friday (August 21), particularly at key water-monitoring stations. A large volume of water had passed through Nan city and moved into Wiang Sa district, where close monitoring remained necessary because the water level was still about two metres above the riverbank.

Provided there is no further heavy rain or significant change in conditions, the situation in Wiang Sa is expected to return to normal within two to three days before the water flows towards Sirikit Dam.

The Phetkasem Foundation recently recovered the body of an unidentified man found floating upstream of Sop Yao Bridge in Tha Wang Pha district. No identification documents were found on him, and authorities are seeking his relatives.

The discovery brought the number of deaths linked to the flooding in Nan to three.

Nan Governor Chainarong Wongyai said rain remained possible across 70% of the province, with heavy falls expected in some areas, particularly in the southern districts of Mueang Nan, Wiang Sa, Na Noi and Na Muen.

He said water levels across most of the province were continuing to fall, allowing recovery work to begin. Wiang Sa remained the exception, with water levels still holding steady, although they were expected to begin declining from about 2pm.

Authorities will prioritise recovery operations in Pua and Tha Wang Pha districts before moving on to Mueang Nan and Wiang Sa.

Electricity has been restored to almost all affected areas, while officials are accelerating repairs to resume tap-water supplies for local residents.