Sonca strom still causing heavy rain in Thailand

BANGKOK, July 28 (TNA) -- Although storm Sonca is weakening as it moves over Thailand it is still causing heavy rain and flash floods in several provinces. Torrential rains brought flashfloods in Lob Buri city, overflowing water from rivers and waterways inundated commercial parts of the central province. With overwhelming amount of water, officials had to release water from Kud Ta Pet reservoir, prompting an evacuation of residents in lower stream. Perhaps, the northeastern province of Ubon Ratchathani has been hardest hit by the storm. The province has experienced not only heavy rain but also gusty wind. In Rai Noi village, several houses were blown over or damaged from flying debris and tree brances. One of the villagers, Sawian Somsuk, 64, had her house demolished when she and her six grandchildren were resting Wednesday evening. An uprooted tree fell on to the house before the wind toppled the whole structure but, luckily, all seven people were safe. Local authorities in affected areas have prepared flood reliefs and emergency funds for repairng properties. According to the Meteorological Department's warning number 18 issued Thursday morning, Sonca has been downgraded to from tropical depression to an active low pressure. It is expected to dissipate by Friday. But in the meantime, widespread rainfall with isolated heavy and possible flash floods will continue in several areas. (TNA)