The Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives held a meeting to monitor the nationwide water situation, emphasizing the need for the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) to prepare measures to address both flooding and drought promptly.
The latest reports indicate that there are floodwaters affecting 18 provinces.
The agriculture minister Thammanat Prompao expressed concern about the potential for flooding due to forecasts from the Meteorological Department indicating heavy rains from September 23 to 26 in certain central areas, including Bangkok and its suburbs, the eastern region, and the southern region.
This heavy rainfall could lead to sudden floods and overflow of rivers. Therefore, he instructed the department to efficiently manage water resources to mitigate potential damage.
RID’s Director-General Prapit Chanma reported that there are currently flooded areas in 18 provinces, including Uthai Thani, Phitsanulok, Phichit, Nakhon Sawan, Kamphaeng Phet, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Phanom, Chanthaburi, Lopburi, Saraburi, Nakhon Nayok, Chachoengsao, and Ang Thong.
Local officials have installed additional water pumps to enhance water drainage in affected areas.
Simultaneously, the weather remains unpredictable, with some areas experiencing lower than usual rainfall due to the El Niño phenomenon.
The dry season is expected to begin on November 1, so comprehensive water management measures are being put in place to minimize the impact on the public and farmers nationwide. (TNA)
