BANGKOK, 19 April 2012 – More than half of Thailand’s provinces have been declared drought-hit areas, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DPMD)’s Deputy Director-General Anusorn Kaewkangwa said that there are now 42 provinces across the country, which have been hit hard by drought.
He said that the situation in drought-hit North and Northeast is to be closely monitored due to the lack of rainfall.
However, Mr. Anusorn stated that the overall situation remains under control as the water storage at Queen Sirikit Dam is now high enough for people in these areas to consume and use.
He added that the Local Administrative Organizations in all drought-affected provinces have been instructed to extend necessary assistance to victims of the severe dry weather condition.
Mr. Anusorn also said that all drought-disaster provinces are now eligible for financial help from the government’s 50-million-baht emergency budget.
He went on to say that Thailand’s upper part is to beware of summer storm, which may hit the region soon.
The DPMD’s Deputy Director-General said that people in Thailand’s South are also to be ready for the impact of the approaching summer storm while stating that all related agencies have been instructed to be on stand-by around the clock to help those in need.
He said that people who are hit by drought can seek state assistance from the nearest Local Administrative Organization office or call the DPMD hotline number at 1784.
