Bangkok: The Royal Irrigation Department is actively monitoring the expected increase in rainfall from August 29 to September 2, with a focus on managing water levels in the Chao Phraya basin. The department has emphasized that water management will be conducted according to the prevailing situation, as reservoirs in the basin currently have a water storage capacity of over 9,600 million cubic meters.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Witthaya Kaewmee, Director-General of the Royal Irrigation Department, has revealed that the Smart Water Operations Center (SWOC) is closely tracking the water situation and weather conditions. The Meteorological Department has announced that there will be a significant increase in rainfall in Thailand during the specified period, particularly affecting the upper northern, upper northeastern, and eastern regions, as well as areas exposed to the southwest monsoon. Consequently, irrigation agencies across the country have been instructed to prepare for this situation.
Currently, large and medium-sized reservoirs nationwide hold approximately 49,524 million cubic meters of water, representing 65% of their combined capacity, with the ability to accommodate over 27,142 million cubic meters more. The four main dams in the Chao Phraya River basin-Bhumibol Dam, Sirikit Dam, Kwae Noi Bamrung Dan Dam, and Pa Sak Chonlasit Dam-currently hold a combined 15,095 million cubic meters of water, or 61% of their combined capacity, with room for an additional 9,688 million cubic meters. The Royal Irrigation Department has instructed relevant projects to manage water in reservoirs appropriately, considering the rainfall and inflow situation, while balancing water intake during the rainy season and reserving water for the dry season.
As of 6:00 AM, the water flow in the Chao Phraya River basin at station C.2 in Nakhon Sawan province is measured at 1,042 cubic meters per second, with the Chao Phraya Dam recording a flow rate of 620 cubic meters per second. The department is managing the water upstream by regulating water intake into irrigation systems on both sides and gradually adjusting water release through the dam to minimize the impact on downstream areas.
If water levels rise, necessitating additional release through the Chao Phraya Dam, the department will inform the public periodically. Residents in potentially affected areas are urged to closely monitor news and updates on the water situation.
Mr. Witthaya further stated that the department is prepared to handle the situation by stockpiling machinery, equipment, and personnel ready for operation. They are also inspecting and maintaining irrigation structures to ensure they are in good working condition, and accelerating the removal of water obstructions to improve drainage efficiency in anticipation of increased rainfall.
The Royal Irrigation Department will continue to closely monitor the water situation and weather conditions, managing water resources as needed.