Bangkok: The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has issued a warning to residents in low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya, Tha Chin, and Mae Klong rivers in seven provinces to watch out for high tides from October 3rd to 6th, particularly between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, which could lead to flooding in areas outside the embankments.
According to Thai News Agency, the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) reported that monitoring data from the Hydrographic Department indicates water levels around Phra Chulachomklao Fort and surrounding areas are expected to rise to 1.70-1.90 meters above mean sea level, approximately 0.20 meters above the critical level. This increase is attributed to prevailing easterly and southeasterly winds over Thailand, along with continued rainfall, which is causing river levels to rise.
Areas at risk include low-lying regions along the Chao Phraya River, Tha Chin River, and Mae Klong River, particularly communities outside temporary embankments or dams lacking permanent barriers. The affected provinces are Samut Prakan, Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon, Nakhon Pathom, and Samut Songkhram.
The RID has requested relevant agencies to expedite actions, including closely monitoring the water situation and inspecting the stability of riverbanks in at-risk areas. They are also urged to prepare machinery and tools for immediate assistance to citizens in emergencies and adjust water management plans from reservoirs, dams, and water gates to align with the high tide situation.
The National Water Resources and Environmental Policy Committee (NWR) advises residents in at-risk areas to closely monitor official news during this period.