Storm ‘Zulik’ Devastates Mukdahan with Heavy Rain and Flooding for 10 Hours
The province of Mukdahan was hit hard by the recent storm ‘Zulik’, which brought heavy rain for a continuous 10 hours from late night on September 19th to the early hours of September 20th. The downpour caused flooding in several areas within the municipal area of Mukdahan, with neighborhoods like Tad Khan Soi 3 being particularly affected. Residents reported water levels rising up to their doorsteps, covering staircases, footpaths, and even flooding the Mukdahan Hospital flat, especially at the intersection of the red light, the T.O.A. School, and the Wat Kham Sai Thong. The floodwaters reached over 30 centimeters in height, making it difficult for cars and motorcycles to navigate the streets.
The head of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department of Mukdahan Municipality, Mr. Adul Siriman, along with municipal officials, immediately sprang into action from 4:00 AM onwards to assist the affected residents. They deployed large water pumps to drain the flooded areas and provided sandbags to help residents protect their homes from further inundation. Additionally, they cleared debris blocking waterways to alleviate the flooding and prevent any potential hazards caused by the stagnant water in the area.
Efforts to Mitigate the Flood Damage
In response to the rising floodwaters, the water levels in the Mekong River passing through Mukdahan province have been steadily decreasing. The latest recorded water level was at 11.23 meters, down from the critical level of 12.50 meters on September 19th, a decrease of 2 centimeters. While this decrease is a positive sign, authorities are remaining vigilant and urging residents living near the Mekong River to closely monitor the situation. They are advised to stay informed and prepared for any potential rise in water levels by contacting the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department of Mukdahan Province or the emergency hotline 1784.
The local government and rescue teams will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide assistance as needed to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents in Mukdahan. The cooperation and coordination between the authorities and the community are vital in effectively managing the aftermath of the storm and mitigating further damage caused by the heavy rainfall.
Community Resilience in the Face of Natural Disasters
The recent storm ‘Zulik’ serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the importance of disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions like Mukdahan. With climate change exacerbating extreme weather events, it is crucial for communities to enhance their resilience and adaptive capacity to cope with the impacts of such disasters.
The local government plays a pivotal role in disaster risk reduction and response efforts, but community involvement is equally essential. Initiatives such as early warning systems, evacuation plans, and community-based disaster preparedness programs can help mitigate the impact of natural disasters and save lives. By fostering a culture of resilience and cooperation, communities can build a strong foundation for responding to future emergencies effectively.
In conclusion, the devastating effects of storm ‘Zulik’ in Mukdahan highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to address the challenges posed by extreme weather events. As the climate continues to change, it is imperative for governments, communities, and individuals to work together towards building a more resilient and sustainable future. By investing in disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and community engagement, we can better protect our environment and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in vulnerable areas like Mukdahan.