Experts warn of heavy rain and flooding from Typhoon Kajiki, with Nan at highest risk
Experts warn of heavy rain and potential flooding from Typhoon Kajiki on August 26-27, urging evacuation and asset relocation, particularly in Nan province.
Assoc Prof Seri Supratit, Director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University and Vice President of the Foundation of National Disaster Warning Council, on Saturday posted a warning on Facebook regarding the approaching Typhoon Kajiki, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding on August 26-27.
Currently, Kajiki remains a tropical depression, but forecasts from the Hong Kong Climate Centre suggest it will intensify into a severe tropical storm on August 24 and a typhoon by August 25.
Seri stated that, while the severity of this storm is expected to be less than that of Storm Wipha (which caused flooding in late July), it is still likely to bring rainfall exceeding 300mm in many areas. These include regions in the Northeast, such as Bung Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Nong Khai, Loei, Udon Thani, and the North, including Nan, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, and Uttaradit.
The worst-hit area is expected to be Nan, where flooding risk is very high. According to initial assessments, areas such as Chiang Klang, Pua, Tha Wang Pha, Mueang, and Wiang Sa are at significant risk of flash floods and overflow. Seri urged residents to prepare for evacuation and move valuables to safe locations ahead of August 26. He also recommended staying clear of flood-prone areas, as the risk of overflowing is expected to peak on the morning of August 27.
Seri emphasised that no lives should be lost to this disaster, and residents should stay alert to official warnings from the National Disaster Warning Centre.
