Bangkok: The government has warned 12 provinces to be on alert for heavy rainfall and flash floods, and has ordered the Royal Irrigation Department to be prepared to provide immediate assistance.
According to Thai News Agency, the government has issued a warning to residents in 12 provinces at risk of heavy rainfall and flash floods after a monsoon trough passed over northern Thailand and upper Laos, combined with a relatively strong southwest monsoon, resulting in continued rainfall across the country. The Royal Irrigation Department and related agencies have been instructed to prepare equipment and personnel to assist the public 24 hours a day.
On August 13, 2026, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is closely monitoring the water situation. The Meteorological Department forecasts that from August 10-16, 2026, 60-70% of the northern and northeastern regions will experience thunderstorms with some heavy rainfall, while the central and eastern regions will have a 40-60% chance of thunderstorms.
Areas requiring special monitoring due to accumulated rainfall, flash floods, and river overflows cover 12 provinces, including Northern Thailand: Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Phitsanulok; Northeastern Region: Mukdahan, Roi Et, Yasothon, Nakhon Phanom, Udon Thani, Amnat Charoen; and Central Region: Saraburi.
The Royal Irrigation Department has confirmed that machinery, water pumps, and personnel are on standby at high-risk areas. They are ready to monitor upstream water levels in the Chao Phraya River basin to manage water resources and minimize impacts on downstream areas. Local authorities have been urged to expedite the assessment of high-risk areas and prepare to provide immediate assistance to the public when an incident occurs.
Residents in hillside areas, low-lying areas, riverbanks, and flood-prone areas are advised to closely monitor official announcements. If water levels rise or heavy rainfall continues, they should immediately move belongings and agricultural equipment to higher ground.