Bangkok: The government has mandated adjustments to the water discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam, setting the release at a rate of 700-1,000 cubic meters per second to effectively manage the rising upstream water flow. This decision comes as a direct response to continuous heavy rainfall affecting various districts along the Ayutthaya river, which have been placed on alert for potential high water levels.
According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the heavy rain in the upper regions of the country has led to an increase in the water volume flowing into the Chao Phraya River basin. Consequently, the government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has directed relevant agencies to coordinate their efforts to address this situation and provide immediate assistance to affected communities.
The Smart Water Operations Center (SWOC) of the Royal Irrigation Department has forecasted that by August 28, 2026, the water flow through station C.2 in Mueang Nakhon Sawan District will rise to approximately 1,000-1,100 cubic meters per second. This increase is expected to elevate the water flow into the upstream area of the Chao Phraya Dam to 1,100-1,200 cubic meters per second.
The Deputy Spokesperson highlighted that the Royal Irrigation Department is implementing a water management strategy upstream of the dam. This includes accelerating the diversion of water into irrigation systems on both the eastern and western sides to mitigate peak water levels. Simultaneously, the dam's discharge rate will be adjusted to align with the upstream water volume, which is anticipated to raise the downstream water level by about 0.60-1.50 meters.
Areas at risk, particularly low-lying regions outside flood embankments in six districts of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, including Sena, Phak Hai, Bang Bal, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Bang Pa In, and Bang Sai, will require vigilant monitoring.
Captain Patthadarasmi urged residents in low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya River and downstream of the dam to stay informed about the water situation and heed official warnings. The government's commitment to managing water resources aims to minimize public impact while continuously monitoring accumulated rainfall.