Pattaya:The Joint Flood Situation Information Center (JICC) is closely monitoring three districts in Chachoengsao province, warning residents to stay informed about announcements due to potential flooding risks. Pattaya City has also been advised to prepare for possible heavy rain next week as weather patterns shift southward. The center has noted a decrease in upstream water levels and reports that the Mae Klong River remains below its banks.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkapop Pienpises, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, has shared the Meteorological Department's forecast, predicting scattered thunderstorms and lightning across various regions from October 5-7. The rain is expected to begin in the Northeast and move towards the Central and Western regions. Another spell of rain is anticipated from October 10-13, with the heaviest rainfall expected in the northern region, particularly where the Ping and Nan rivers join the Chao Phraya River. The dams in this area reportedly have enough capacity to handle the expected water influx.
In the western region, significant rainfall is forecasted for Kanchanaburi, Phetchaburi, and Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, which will lead to increased rainfall in the southern areas. The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Center has directed southern provinces, their governors, and the 4th Army Region to prepare for disaster management efforts and mobilize necessary equipment. Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert to weather announcements. The Prime Minister has also directed that relief efforts should commence in regions where floodwaters have begun to recede, without waiting for a complete recession across all affected areas.
Mr. Ekkapop also reported on the water situation in the northern region, where there has been no significant inflow at the Sirikit and Bhumibol dams. Meanwhile, Nakhon Sawan province has seen a decrease in water levels flowing into the central region. The Chao Phraya Dam has been releasing water at a rate of 2,500 cubic meters per second recently, which, alongside reduced upstream water flow, has led to water levels in Nonthaburi and Bangkok being about 1 meter below the riverbanks.
Similarly, in Samut Songkhram province, the Mae Klong River's water levels have dropped by about 1 meter in the districts of Mueang, Bang Khon Thi, and Amphawa, indicating an improvement. In the eastern region, water levels are receding in Nakhon Nayok and Prachinburi provinces, moving into Chachoengsao province and flowing into the Bang Pakong River. Consequently, residents of Bang Khla, Ratchasasan, and Mueang districts in Chachoengsao are advised to be vigilant. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue in the southern region next week, with potential flash floods and mountain runoff, necessitating close monitoring.
Mr. Ekkapop emphasized the need for vigilance in Pattaya City, Chonburi Province, warning of possible intense rain this afternoon, which could lead to local flooding. Continuous monitoring and caution are also advised for Chachoengsao and Pathum Thani provinces, particularly those receiving water from Nakhon Nayok. Residents from Phetchaburi province down to the southern region should remain alert until next week.