Yala: Bang Lang Dam is set to increase its water discharge as it approaches its storage capacity due to heavy inflow and continuous rainfall in the region. The Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) anticipates that within the next seven days, the dam will receive an additional 500 million cubic meters of water, necessitating an increase in discharge to maintain safety and stability.
According to Thai News Agency, ONWR Secretary-General Mr. Surasee Kittimondol chaired a meeting of the Subcommittee on Water Situation Analysis and Assessment. He stated that high air pressure from China, combined with easterly winds, is causing persistent rain across southern Thailand, particularly affecting the three southern border provinces. From December 4 to 6, these provinces will also face challenges from high sea levels, further complicating water drainage to the sea.
Seven provinces, including Nakhon Si Thammarat, Satun, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, are currently experiencing flooding, with
several rivers overflowing their banks. Heavy rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters in 24 hours is expected in some areas, increasing the risk of landslides in provinces such as Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, and Phatthalung. Warnings have been issued for potential landslides and flash floods until December 4.
The water situation in Bang Lang Reservoir, Yala Province, has been closely monitored since November 27, when water release was halted to minimize flooding impacts. The reservoir currently holds 919 million cubic meters, or 63% of its capacity. However, the anticipated inflow over the next week will push water levels near capacity, necessitating an increase in discharge to no more than 16 million cubic meters per day. This measure aims to control the water volume at Station X40A, ensuring it does not exceed November 28’s peak rate of 1,517 cubic meters per second, or +18.97 meters of the mean sea level. The rainfall downstream of the dam will also be considered in this decision-making process, w
ith the forecast results to be presented to the River Basin Committee.
The Subcommittee on Water Resources Management will continue to monitor and analyze the situation, providing recommendations to the National Water Resources Committee (NWRC). These efforts aim to urge relevant agencies to inspect prevention, warning, and response systems, thereby alleviating the impact of the floods on affected communities.