Bangkok:Flooding in many areas of Thailand is subsiding, but authorities are advising the public to remain vigilant due to expected heavy rainfall from October 9 to October 12.
According to Thai News Agency, a press conference was held by several officials, including Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, and Mr. Fata Marsathavi, a meteorological forecasting specialist. They discussed the impact of a high-pressure system moving across the country, which is likely to bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall, particularly affecting the southern regions.
On October 9, heavy rainfall is expected in the lower northeastern region, particularly in Ubon Ratchathani, Buriram, Sisaket, and Surin provinces, as well as the eastern coast of the southern region. The following day, October 10, the lower northern region, lower northeastern region, central region, including Bangkok, and the eastern and southern regions are forecasted to experience significant rainfall.
By October 11, heavy rain is anticipated in the lower northern region, particularly Tak province, the central region including Kanchanaburi, and the western region including Ratchaburi and Phetchaburi. On October 12, rain will continue in the lower central and western southern regions, but with less intensity. The lower southern region, especially Pattani and Narathiwat, will also continue to see rain.
Mr. Prinya Chantakhupt from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration reported that scattered rainfall in Bangkok has led to high water levels on major roads, and the public is advised to avoid certain areas. Efforts are underway to manage flooding in various districts, with water pumps activated and floodgates opened.
Over 56,000 people have registered for flood relief assistance, with the highest registrations in Lat Krabang, Bang Kapi, and Sai Mai districts. Additional service points have been established to assist flood victims, facilitating document processing and support.
Mr. Thawatchai Traiwari, from the Royal Irrigation Department, indicated that rain levels in the upper areas, such as Chiang Mai and Nan, are manageable by local dams. Water release will be strictly controlled to maintain ecosystem balance and support agriculture.
In the Chao Phraya Dam in Nakhon Sawan, water flow has decreased, and overall conditions are improving. The department is managing water discharge to prevent impacts on communities and critical areas.
In the Mae Klong River basin, rainfall is expected to increase, and measures are in place to manage water levels. Water flow through the Mae Klong Dam has increased, influencing downstream areas like Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi.
The Phetchaburi province's water management involves controlling discharge from the Kaeng Krachan Dam to prevent downstream impacts. Current water release into Phetchaburi city is within the river's capacity, posing no immediate threats.
In the eastern region, particularly the Bang Pakong River basin, water levels are stable but require monitoring. Efforts to drain water from floodplains continue, though high tides may temporarily affect water levels in Chachoengsao Province.
Authorities, including the Royal Thai Navy and Royal Irrigation Department, are deploying resources to expedite water drainage and minimize public impact, with expectations for gradual improvement in the situation.