BANGKOK, Thailand – Thai authorities are closely monitoring water levels and preparing for potential flooding as heavy rainfall is expected to continue through September and October, officials said on Monday.
The warning comes as the country is experiencing the tail end of the rainy season, typically the wettest period of the year. This year, the La Niña weather pattern is exacerbating the situation, leading to above-normal rainfall in some areas, according to the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR).
To mitigate the potential impacts, authorities are accelerating water discharge from dams and reservoirs to create more storage capacity for incoming rainwater. Despite concerns over rising water levels, Bangkok officials have expressed confidence that floodwaters will not inundate economic areas or the capital.
Surasee Kittimongkol, secretary-general of the ONWR, said that agencies have been instructed to expedite the pumping of stagnant water from affected areas. The Royal Irrigation Department has also been tasked with releasing water from dams with excess water without compromising downstream areas.
“The monsoon trough, combined with the La Niña phenomenon, is expected to bring heavier than usual rainfall to some regions,” he said, adding that the country is also bracing for one to two more tropical storms.
The Royal Irrigation Department has already begun releasing water from dams and rivers to reduce the impact of potential flooding.
Thanet Somboon, director-general of the department’s water resources management and hydrology office, said that the Bhumibol Dam has reduced its discharge rate to 3 million cubic meters per day, while the Sirikit Dam has ceased releasing water since August 29.
Bangkok has estimated that the floodwaters from the northern region will reach the city today (Sept 2), coinciding with the high tide. The Drainage Department has reinforcing areas without protective barriers or weak points with sandbags, but it is expected that inner areas will remain unaffected.
A comprehensive plan has been in place to manage the situation, and the BMA is confident that Bangkok will be able to withstand the impact of the upcoming floods. (TNA)
