BANGKOK, 15 July 2015, The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) has indicated that more rainfall is likely to occur at the end of the month, which would greatly help the agricultural sector.
GISTDA Director Dr Anon Sanitwong na Ayutthaya told the media that from now to the end of July scattered thundershowers will be more common in several areas, however the amount of rainwater would not be enough to replenish dams. He said the period bringing enough water to fill dams would likely start in the middle of August, when the monsoon season begins in China. The director expects at least 3.5 billion cubic meters of rainwater will be stored during the period in the Kingdom’s four major dams.
El Nino is expected to intensify again in November, which may result in a premature end to the rainy season. Such a development would negatively affect the agricultural sector. The phenomenon would likely continue from November right up to next year’s drought season. Director Anon strongly recommended rice farmers refrain from off-season farming, due to the risk outlined.
People in drought affected areas are advised to store water, for consumption over both the short and long term.
