The Bangkok Post quoted information from the Thai Meteorological Department as saying that Storm No. 4 Soulik weakened into a low-pressure area on the evening of September 19 over central Laos after passing through central Vietnam, but is expected to cause heavy rain across Thailand until September 23.
According to the latest storm news, at 7:00 p.m. on September 19, the center of the low pressure area was at about 16.9 degrees north latitude; 106.2 degrees east longitude. The strongest wind in the center of the low pressure area decreased to below level 6 (below 39 km/h). It is forecasted that in the next 12 hours, the low pressure area will continue to move mainly westward, weakening and gradually dissipating.
The Thai Meteorological Department has advised Thais to prepare for heavy rains and strong winds in the northern, northeastern, central and southern regions. People in these areas have been warned of the possibility of flash floods and high water flows.
Boats are advised to stay ashore along the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand until September 22 due to heavy rain and high waves.
Thailand has also experienced severe flooding and landslides caused by Typhoon Yagi, affecting nine provinces, killing at least 19 people and injuring many others. The Ministry of Health is mobilizing medical supplies and medical staff to assist the affected people.
According to The Thaiger, the disaster that occurred from September 8 to September 18 has created an emergency situation that requires a coordinated response from multiple government agencies. Inspector General of the Ministry of Health Veerawut Imsamran stressed that the current flood and landslide situation is a top priority, requiring joint efforts from all government agencies to support and assist the people.
Since September 8, nine provinces in Thailand have been affected by floods, including Chiang Rai, Nong Khai, Loei, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Udon Thani, Phuket, Satun and Trang, with a total of 462 people injured and 19 dead. The causes of death include landslides, drowning and being swept away by floodwaters.
Provinces where the situation is easing, such as Chiang Rai, are advised to monitor waterborne diseases and educate the public on safe water use.
Provinces that are still suffering from disasters need to ensure the welfare of people and those in shelters, and establish epidemic prevention systems in shelters.
Provinces at risk of future flooding, such as those in the Mekong River basin and areas affected by tropical depressions, should closely monitor the situation, assess risks to health services, identify vulnerable groups, plan evacuations, and ensure adequate medical supplies.
