Bangkok: The Department of Highways has ordered close monitoring of Tropical Storm Kalmaegi and is expediting assistance and facilitating flood victims in at-risk areas. Mr. Piyapong Jiwattanakulpaisan, Director-General of the Department of Highways, revealed that the Meteorological Department has predicted that Tropical Storm Kalmaegi will move into Thailand on November 7, 2025, and will cause heavy to very heavy rainfall in many areas, particularly in the lower northeastern region, which could lead to flash floods and landslides. He has ordered the Highways Office and Highway District Offices in areas expected to be affected to closely monitor and monitor the situation. They are also preparing personnel, machinery, and safety equipment to provide timely assistance to the public.
According to Thai News Agency, areas expected to be affected include Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, Nakhon Sawan, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, and Uthai Thani provinces, where continuous rainfall and riverbank overflows are possible in some areas. The Director-General of the Department of Highways has emphasized the following actions for local agencies:
1. Closely monitor and follow the water and flood situation, especially along highways that cut through river basins and areas at risk of repeated flooding, and continuously report the situation to the Department of Highways' Disaster Management Center.
2. Install warning signs, water level indicators, and clear road boundary posts in affected areas to remind road users to exercise caution while traveling. When water levels recede, quickly assess the damage and carry out initial repairs to allow normal traffic flow.
3. Integrate with provinces and relevant agencies to provide manpower, heavy machinery, water trucks, vehicles, and necessary resources to facilitate and fully assist people in areas affected by Tropical Storm Kalmaegi.
4. Arrange for personnel to urgently assist the people in the area, including facilitating travel, delivering relief supplies, food, drinking water, and essential items to alleviate suffering and boost public morale.
The Department of Highways has also deployed personnel to monitor and report the situation 24 hours a day, including a mobile response unit to respond to emergencies in at-risk areas. Members of the public who wish to inquire about routes or report flooding on highways can contact the Department of Highways hotline at 1586 (toll-free, 24 hours a day).