PRESS RELEASE:
The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Center has intensified efforts to support communities impacted by recent floods as Thailand braces for further heavy rains in the southern region. Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai, who chairs the center, has praised the personnel and volunteers’ dedication to relief operations and urged officials to remain focused despite criticisms. The center is preparing to respond swiftly to potential flooding in the south and is keeping a close watch on the situation.
During a recent meeting, officials reviewed the aftermath of what has been described as a 500-year flood in Chiang Mai’s capital district caused by an unprecedented water volume. The Ministry of Interior and the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) have been tasked with developing long-term urban flood prevention plans and improving water drainage systems. Restoration efforts in Chiang Rai province are also progressing and are expected to be completed by October 21.
The RID has reported that water levels in the Ping River are gradually receding, easing the situation in Chiang Mai and Lamphun, where most commercial areas are no longer submerged. However, some low-lying villages in both provinces are still dealing with flooding, prompting the deployment of additional water pumps to expedite drainage. In Chiang Rai’s Wiang Pa Pao district, recovery is underway following landslides and severe flooding that damaged homes and blocked access routes. Military units and heavy machinery have cleared debris and stabilized the area.
Attention is now shifting to the southern provinces, where high tides are expected between October 13 and 24. The center has instructed related agencies to remove any blockages that could hinder water flow and to inspect roads prone to landslides to prevent disruptions. Water management agencies will also monitor and manage water levels from Chao Phraya Dam to minimize the impact on central provinces, with the outflow rate being closely regulated to prevent flooding in affected areas.
The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.
