Bangkok: Asst. Prof. Dr. Sitangsu Pilai-la, a water management expert at Kasetsart University, has assured that the catastrophic flooding experienced in 2011 will not repeat itself, even as the Bhumibol Dam nears full capacity. He emphasized that control measures are in place, though residents downstream of the Chao Phraya Dam are advised to prepare for a potential rise in water levels by one meter due to anticipated rain, upstream water influx, and sea surges in the coming weeks.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued a warning for areas downstream of the Chao Phraya Dam. The dam is expected to increase its water discharge to 2,600 cubic meters per second on the evening of November 6th, which could affect low-lying regions outside the embankments in Pathum Thani and Nonthaburi provinces. Residents in these areas are advised to elevate their belongings by at least one meter to safeguard against the rising water levels attributed to upstream flows, continued rainfall, and elevated sea levels.
The current situation remains stable, though vigilance is required. From November 5th to 9th, higher sea levels are expected to slow drainage processes. Concurrently, water from the North, particularly from the Chao Phraya and Sakae Krang rivers, continues to arrive, necessitating sustained high drainage rates for up to a month to prevent the overflow of riverbanks in low-lying regions.
Regarding the Bhumibol and Sirikit dams, which are nearing their full capacity, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sitangsu confirmed that a repeat of the 2011 flooding is unlikely due to more efficient water management systems now in place. Although the Bhumibol Dam is over 97% full, water release is being conducted gradually and with control. He cautioned that some water catchment areas and fields might experience flooding until the year’s end. Bangkok is advised to prepare for “water waiting to be released” and rising sea levels in certain zones, although it is not expected to escalate into a major flood crisis.