More than 280,000 rai affected across 22 districts in northeast.

NAKHON RATCHASIMA: Flooding caused by heavy rain has caused extensive damage in this northeastern province, affecting more than 8,000 households.

Eighteen reservoirs have already exceeded their designed capacity, and eight others were nearing overflow point, officials said on Tuesday.

Floods triggered by storm Noru, which hit the province on Sept 27, had affected 734 villages in 22 districts -Muang, Chakkrarat, Phimai, Sung Noen Kham Thale So, Chalerm Phrakiat, Pak Thongchai, Khong, Prathai,  Lam Thamenchai, Kaeng Sanam Nang, Dan Khun Thot, Non Sung, Huai Thalaeng, Chum Phuang, Non Thai, Muang Yang, Nong Bunmak, Bua Yai, Bua Lai, Sida and Chok Chai. 

In addition to crops and households, also affected have been dozens of temples and schools as well as nearly 200 roads, one water station and nine government offices.

The flooding also caused two deaths, in Non Thai and Dan Khun Thot districts.

Of affected areas, flooding in 10 districts has returned to normal and gradually receded in six districts.  Floods continue in another six districts: Non Sung, Chalerm Phrakiat, Phimai, Chum Phuang, Lam Thamenchai and Muang Yang.

Local officials have evacuated 56 households to 10 shelters in Chalam Phrakiat, Chum Phuang and Muang Yang districts.