Rayong flooding forces hospital evacuation after reservoir failure

Severe flooding has struck several districts in Rayong, Thailand, following a structural failure at a reservoir spillway. The disaster has forced the emergency evacuation of Klaeng Hospital after floodwaters breached the grounds, reaching chest height in some areas. At least 30 patients were transferred to Chaloem Phrakiat Hospital, while others with less severe conditions were moved to the Klaeng Buddhist Relief Association shrine.

In the Thap Ma subdistrict of Mueang district, a damaged wall caused floodwaters to inundate Modern City Village and surrounding homes within 20 minutes. Residents reported that the sudden surge damaged valuables and left many homes submerged. Officials have declared Klaeng, Mueang Rayong, Khao Chamao, and Wang Chan as disaster zones.

Rayong Governor Traiphop Wongtrinat has directed relief teams to provide food and clean water to trapped residents. Due to many roads being cut off, rescue teams are increasingly relying on boats to reach affected communities. Some residents near the Prasae Reservoir described the event as the worst flooding they have experienced in 60 years.