Bangkok:As the country braces for another round of rain, the government is taking measures to manage water levels in dams in anticipation of increased rainfall from October 10 to 13. Several provinces in the South and West are at risk.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkapop Pienpises, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, reported that the Joint Information and Communication Center (JICC) has issued warnings about the impending heavy rainfall, particularly impacting the South and West. Authorities are focusing on accelerated water management in these areas to mitigate potential flooding.
The Meteorological Department forecasts thunderstorms in many areas on October 6-7, as seasonal transition brings cooler weather to the North, coupled with a risk of landslides. Rain is expected to intensify from October 11-13, affecting the western region and parts of the central and southern regions, particularly Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, and the Andaman coast.
In the Chao Phraya River basin, water levels are slightly decreasing, with the flow from upstream into Nakhon Sawan trending downwards. The Pasak Chonlasit Dam is at full capacity, continuing to release water into the Rama VI Dam. Despite some flooded areas in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, the Chao Phraya River remains below flood barriers.
In the West, the Vajiralongkorn Dam and Srinakarin Dam are near capacity, prompting faster water release. The Kaeng Krachan Dam in Phetchaburi is also full, with water releases underway to prepare for more rain.
In Prachinburi province, water levels are slowly receding, while warnings have been issued in Chachoengsao province as water overflows flood barriers along the Bang Pakong River.
Mr. Fata Marsathawi from the meteorological forecasting system development emphasized heavy rainfall expected across various regions, urging the public to monitor weather forecasts closely.
Dr. Thanes Somboon from the Royal Irrigation Department noted that main dams in the upper Chao Phraya River basin have remaining capacity. The government is preparing to lower upstream water levels to accommodate upcoming rainfall, carefully managing water discharge to prevent landslides and bank instability.
The Royal Irrigation Department is enhancing water drainage in the eastern Chao Phraya River area, particularly from Pathum Thani to Bangkok, to manage the anticipated rainwater influx.
Mr. Ekkapop concluded by urging the public to stay informed and heed official warnings, with JICC providing daily updates on the situation.