Flood in the Northeast

NAKHON PHANOM, Sept 1 (TNA) - Water levels in the Mekong River reach critical levels in the northeastern provinces as water influx discharged from dams in neighboring countries exacerbates the situation. The rising Mekong River has resulted in flooding in the northeastern provinces including Nakhon Phanom, Bueng Kan and Nong Khai. Twelve districts in Nakhon Phanom have been declared flood disaster zones after overflowing water inundated communities and farmlands. The water level rose to 12. 71 meters in Bueng Kan’s Pak Kad district prompting authorities to issue warnings to all riverside communities. Measured in Nong Khai, the water level slightly receded Friday morning but still well over critical point. A mass of water from upstream area is expected to reach Nong Khai on Saturday . In Chao Phraya River Basin, irrigation office have increased the volume of water discharge from Chao Phraya Dam to 800 cubic meters per second as water level continues to rise. The authorities warn people living in downstream areas of Chai Nat and Ayutthaya of possible inundation. Most regions of the country are now facing mid to high levels of water intrusion. The rising Mekong River has resulted in calls for caution in Nakhon Phanom, Mukdaharn, Ubon Ratchathani, Nong Khai and Bueng Kan. (TNA)