Ayutthaya: The government has directed preparations to manage the increased water flow from upstream regions, with adjustments in water release from the Chao Phraya Dam to range between 700 and 1,000 cubic meters per second, depending on the situation. Districts along the Ayutthaya River have been alerted to brace for potential high water levels.

According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, highlighted that continuous heavy rainfall in the upper parts of the country has led to a steady increase in water volume entering the Chao Phraya River basin. The government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has instructed relevant agencies to integrate their efforts proactively to address the water situation and prepare to provide urgent assistance to affected residents.

Monitoring and assessments by the Smart Water Operations Center (SWOC) of the Royal Irrigation Department predict that by August 28, 2026, the water flow through station C.2 in Mueang Nakhon Sawan District will rise to approximately 1,000-1,100 cubic meters per second. This surge will lead to an increased water flow upstream of the Chao Phraya Dam, reaching 1,100-1,200 cubic meters per second.

The deputy spokesperson stated that the government, through the Royal Irrigation Department, has devised a plan to manage water upstream of the dam by diverting water into irrigation systems on both the eastern and western sides to reduce peak water levels. Simultaneously, adjustments in water discharge through the Chao Phraya Dam are set at 700-1,000 cubic meters per second to align with upstream water volume. This change will result in a rise in water levels downstream of the dam by approximately 0.60-1.50 meters.

Certain areas at risk, especially low-lying regions outside the flood embankments in six districts of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province-Sena, Phak Hai, Bang Bal, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Bang Pa In, and Bang Sai-require close monitoring.

Captain Patthadarasmi urged residents in low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya River and downstream of the dam to closely watch the water situation and heed official warnings. The government remains committed to managing water resources efficiently while monitoring accumulated rainfall to minimize public impact.