Floods triggered by heavy overnight rain swept through several communities in Prachuap Khiri Khan Thursday morning, as neighbouring Phetchaburi province battled severe flooding for a third day running.
In Prachuap Khiri Khan, torrential rain pounded Muang district around 1am, causing flooding in low-lying communities. Arkong village, the Makham Fairon community and Kittikhun School in Muang municipality were among the worst hit, with floodwaters 50-80cm deep.
The Royal Thai Air Force's Wing 5 sent 200 personnel to help flood victims evacuate and build sandbag walls along main roads in Muang district of Prachuap Khiri Khan.
A large tent was set up by Thammikkaram temple to assist victims.
Meanwhile, residents in Hua Hin district have been urged to remain vigilant and closely monitor flash flood reports as run-off from nearby mountains could heighten flash flood risks.
According to a recent report, run-off from the Tenasserim mountain range has flowed into the Pran Buri River, raising the water level at the Pran Buri dam. The dam was holding 120.5 million cubic metres of water, or 30% of its capacity.
On the plus side, widespread rain and mountain run-off has helped ease water shortages in Hua Hin and Pran Buri districts.
Jampa Koosin, a resident of Pa La U Village in Hua Hin, said flash floods swept along branches which blocked a makeshift bridge on the outskirts of the village, making it difficult for residents getting in and out of their communities.
Mr Jampa called on the government to build a permanent bridge to provide better access for residents, saying temporary ones built are usually destroyed by annual flash flooding.
In Phetchaburi, flooding continued for a third day without any sign of abating.
Constant rain over the past few days and the discharge of water from the full Phetchaburi dam flooded roads throughout the municipal area and many homes.
A strong current destroyed floodwalls in tambon Khlong Krachang and Tha Rarb in Phetchaburi, causing water to rush onto several main roads.
In some areas, the water level is measured at one metre, making roads impassible to small vehicles.
Since Wednesday, flooding has affected over 5,000 homes and shops in the city. Kindergartens were ordered to close as the water level rose, making it difficult for students to get to school.