Flood hits in southern provinces

TRANG, Nov 26 (TNA) – Heavy rain triggered flood in southern provinces while the Meteorological Department issues a warning for a strong monsoon, prevailing over the Gulf of Thailand until Tuesday. More than 1,000 houses in Trang’s four districts have been by forest run-off and the water level is expected to rise due to continuing rain. A portion of road, heading to Phatthalung is impassable for small vehicles. In the provincial seat, flood has extended to wider areas. Houses, farmland and para rubber plantations have been submerged. Trang governor issued evacuation order as floodwater is expected to reach one metre in Huaiyod district, which receives flood water from Nakhon Si Thammarat. In Phatthalung, flood has extended to five districts after continuing rain triggered forest run-off from the Bantad mountain range. Kuan Kanun is the hardest –hit district and the province plans to declare the district a disaster zone area. Thousands of houses have been under water, forcing villagers to move their belongings to higher ground. The market has been under high flood water since yesterday and all shops remain closed today. In the Muang municipality, the authorities installed several large pumps to accelerate water drainage to protect inner business area. (TNA)