Bangkok (NNT/VNA) – Officials ofThailand are closely monitoring the rising water level of the Mekong Riverafter rain continued to hammer down on much of the Kingdom in the past coupleof days, flooding residential areas and farmland in several provinces.

The water level of the Mekong in NakhonPhanom is only 1 metre and 65 centimetres away from hitting the critical level.Recurring rain and runoff from the river’s tributaries are contributing to therising water level. The province has already declared the districts of BanPhaeng, Tha Uthen, Phon Sawan, That Phanom, Renu Nakhon, Pla Pak, Ban Phaengand Muang Nakhon Phanom flood disaster zones.

In Nong Khai province, the water level ofthe Mekong River was this morning at 9 meters 26 centimetres and rising, whichwas only 2.94 meters from the top of the embankment. All shipping operators inthe area have halted operations due to safety concerns.

Similarly in Mukdahan province, officialshave installed red flags to warn maritime commuters and residents of the highlevel of the river, which is above the 12 meter mark, considered the criticallevel. Several districts are affected by the event. Residents are urged toclosely monitor the situation.

In Ubon Ratchathani, overflow from theMekong River has flooded at least 20 households and some agricultural areas inKhemmarat district and put more than 100 homes at risk of inundation. Residentsare moving their belongings to higher ground where possible.

Meanwhile, the Phang-Nga Highway MaintenanceOffice has dispatched officials to inspect the Khok Khian - Khao Sokintersection of Highway 401, after a rain-triggered landslide blocked 23 metersof the road. Initially, officials are being stationed at the site to overseethe access of commuters and prevent road accidents.-VNA