Fresh rain threat looms over Nan recovery

Nan province faces potential renewed danger from landslides and flash floods this weekend, following forecasted rain on Sunday. The Climate Change and Disaster Centre at Rangsit University warns that saturated soil in the region can no longer absorb much water, increasing the risk of these natural disasters. Nan River levels are expected to drop below banks on Friday, but forecasters are closely monitoring a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam that could bring another round of rain to northern Thailand on Sunday.

The main concern is that the already saturated ground poses a heightened risk of landslides and flash floods, particularly in upper areas. This warning comes after severe flooding in Nan this week, resulting in two deaths and inundation of various districts. The Nan River levels have begun to decline, but severe flooding remains in parts of Wiang Sa district.

Authorities are urging stronger coordination between central and local authorities in disaster preparedness and response, emphasizing the need for local authorities to establish emergency war rooms and improve communication during disasters. Environmental academic Sonthi Kotchawat attributes Nan's recurring floods to long-term environmental degradation, including deforestation and conversion of forested areas into agricultural land, which reduces the land's ability to absorb rainfall and accelerates runoff, increasing the risk of flash floods and river overflows.