Health Warning Issued for Flooded Industrial Areas in Prachin Buri
The Department of Health has issued an urgent warning regarding chemical contamination in flooded industrial zones in Prachin Buri, advising residents to avoid contact with water and local wildlife.
On October 15, 2026, the Department of Health under the Ministry of Public Health issued a safety advisory for residents in Prachin Buri province following flooding in industrial areas. Dr. Thiti Sawaengtham, Director-General of the Department of Health, warned that floodwaters in these zones may be contaminated with hazardous chemicals, including petroleum-based substances, crude oil, lubricants, and solvents like benzene, toluene, and PAHs.
Exposure to these contaminants can lead to adverse health effects, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, respiratory irritation, and skin rashes. The Department has provided eight guidelines for self-protection, emphasizing that residents must strictly avoid using water from suspected contaminated sources for drinking or domestic purposes. Furthermore, the public is advised against catching or consuming aquatic animals from these areas.
Individuals experiencing symptoms such as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness are urged to seek immediate medical attention. The advisory specifically highlights areas where oil slicks are visible or unusual chemical odors are present. While the Department of Health has outlined these precautionary measures, the full extent of the chemical spread and the duration of the contamination risk remain to be confirmed by ongoing environmental monitoring. Residents and travelers in the region are encouraged to stay updated through official health channels.
