Floods have killed 18 so far

The spokesman of the Public Health Ministry said yesterday that 18 people were reported to have been killed in flooding from September 11 to 27.

Spokesman Suphan Srithamma said 4 were reported killed in Nong Bua Lamphu, 3 in Phichit, 2 each in Prachin Buri, Lop Buri, and Saraburi, and one each in Phetchabun, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, Mae Hong Son and Phitsanulok.

Twentyfour of 76 provinces have been deluged since September 11. The Public Health Ministry said that 18 people were swept away and drowned in the flood waters in the north, northeast and central regions.

Nearly 190,000 people have received medical treatment for floodrelated complaints, including trench foot, colds and skin irritations.

The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department under the Interior Ministry said in its latest report that 839,573 people have been affected, but flooding caused by heavy monsoon rains has receded in 19 provinces.

They estimated economic losses at Bt115 million, including damage to homes, bridges, reservoirs, temples and schools.