Bangkok: “Phradon” has issued a warning to the central region along the main rivers, advising residents to prepare for potential flooding over the next two to three days. The Chao Phraya Dam has requested an increase in water release, prompting concerns about a repeat of past flooding incidents.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, has expressed serious concerns regarding the current flooding situation in the Central Region. The region is experiencing rising water levels due to heavy rainfall from October 31st to November 3rd. In response, the Royal Irrigation Department has increased water discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam from 2,500 to 2,700 cubic meters per second. This decision aims to manage the excess water, but residents in provinces such as Chainat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, and Suphan Buri have been urged to remain vigilant.

Mr. Paradorn emphasized the importance of proactive water management strategies. A meeting with relevant agencies was conducted on November 4th to address the situation. The meeting outlined guidelines for managing the large volume of water, which include releasing water through floodgates and the Chao Phraya Dam, as well as utilizing retention areas or “monkey cheek” zones within irrigation regions. This approach seeks to prevent excessive water retention that could lead to flooding. Historical events from 2011 and 2022 have shown that relying primarily on the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries for water release can cause significant rises in river levels, risking the integrity of flood protection structures. Mr. Paradorn stressed the importance of swift and decisive action by operational teams to avoid a repeat of past disasters.