Bangkok:The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued warnings to 10 central provinces and Bangkok to prepare for increased water levels in the Chao Phraya River.
According to Thai News Agency, the DDPM coordinated efforts with the provinces of Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Lop Buri, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan, in addition to Bangkok, to closely monitor the river's water situation. Residents along riverbanks and canals have been advised to prepare for potential flooding. The provinces are instructed to work with local authorities and related agencies to inspect flood barriers, prepare disaster relief machinery, and deploy personnel for monitoring and assistance around the clock.
Mr. Teerapat Khachamat, Director-General of the DDPM, disclosed that the department, as the Central Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (CDPMC), received an urgent letter from the Royal Irrigation Department. The letter, dated September 21, 2026, warned of a significant increase in water flow at station C.2 in Nakhon Sawan Province, with expectations of 1,600-1,950 cubic meters per second by September 27, 2026. Additional water from tributaries is projected at about 300 cubic meters per second, resulting in a total upstream water volume of 1,900-2,250 cubic meters per second at the Chao Phraya Dam.
To manage these levels, it is necessary to release water through the Chao Phraya Dam at a rate of 1,300-1,500 cubic meters per second. This release will raise water levels by about 0.75-1.25 meters in low-lying areas outside flood embankments, affecting several districts in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Ang Thong Provinces. However, community areas within the flood barriers are expected to remain unaffected.
The CDPMC has urged coordination with local businesses and residents to monitor the situation and prepare for possible water level increases. In the event of severe conditions, authorities are to be ready for immediate response and public assistance.
Residents in low-lying areas are advised to move belongings to higher ground and stay informed through continuous monitoring of weather conditions and disaster alerts. Updates can be accessed via the "THAI DISASTER ALERT" application, and assistance can be requested through the "DDPM Emergency Reporting 1784" LINE account or the 24-hour emergency hotline 1784.