Ubon ratchathani: Ubon Ratchathani Province is making rapid preparations by installing water pumps in anticipation of Tropical Storm Kalmaegi, which is expected to hit Thailand. The storm is set to bring heavy rain and potential flash floods to the lower northeastern region from November 7-9, impacting several provinces, including Ubon Ratchathani, with rainfall expected to reach between 35-90 millimeters.
According to Thai News Agency, the Meteorological Department held a press conference at the Weather Forecast Operations Center, where Dr. Sukanyanee Yawinchan, Director-General of the Meteorological Department, described the anticipated path and effects of Typhoon Kalmaegi. The typhoon is projected to make landfall in Vietnam before weakening into a tropical storm and moving through Laos into Ubon Ratchathani Province, causing significant rainfall in upper Thailand, particularly in areas at risk of very heavy rainfall exceeding 90 millimeters.
Typhoon Kalmaegi is anticipated to first impact Ubon Ratchathani Province, with high-risk areas identified as Mueang Ubon Ratchathani District and Warin Chamrap District. These areas have already experienced flooding recently, and officials are working promptly to install water pumps as a preventive measure.
In addition to the northeastern region, several provinces across the North, Northeast, Central, East, and South, including Bangkok, are expected to experience heavy rain. The Andaman Sea will see waves reaching 2-3 meters, with small boats advised to remain ashore due to potential thunderstorms.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued warnings for 10 central provinces and Bangkok, urging them to prepare for floodwaters from the North. The Royal Irrigation Department has increased water discharge through the Chao Phraya Dam, which may elevate water levels downstream, risking overflows in low-lying areas outside embankments. Residents are encouraged to report incidents via the 24-hour emergency hotline.
Furthermore, the DDPM has issued warnings for flooding and landslides in Phuket Province's Mueang, Thalang, and Kathu districts, cautioning hillside residents and those in low-lying areas to remain vigilant.
In Bangkok, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has highlighted the ongoing flood challenges and the convergence of three risk factors: high sea levels, the influence of Tropical Storm Kalmaegi, and increased water discharge from the north. Sandbag placement is deemed crucial for flood prevention, with orders for thorough inspections of sandbag strength and vulnerable areas.