Bangkok: The Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) has issued a warning concerning potential flooding and landslides across four regions in Thailand from July 1 to July 5, 2025. The situation is particularly critical due to the rising levels of the Mekong River, prompting the establishment of a 'frontline water management center' in Nong Khai Province to manage the imminent risks.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Surasee Kittimondol, Secretary-General of ONWR, reported that assessments conducted with the Meteorological Department, the Hydro-Informatics Institute, and other relevant agencies indicate a high probability of heavy rainfall during the specified period. This could result in flash floods, forest runoff, mudslides, and urban flooding in several areas. Additionally, the Mekong River's water level, which continues to rise, demands increased vigilance.
The regions identified as high-risk areas are categorized as follows:
In the Northern region, vulnerable areas include Chiang Rai Province (Chiang Rai City, Mae Sai, Phayao Mengrai, Wiang Chai, Thoeng, Chiang Khong, Wiang Kaen, Chiang Saen), Tak Province (Tha Song Yang, Umphang), Nan Province (Nan City, Bo Kluea, Pua, Thung Chang, Phu Phiang, Tha Wang Pha, Wiang Sa), and Phayao Province (Phayao City, Pong, Chiang Muan).
In the Northeastern region, the affected areas include Loei (Loei city, Na Duang, Dan Sai, Na Haeo, Pak Chom), Nong Khai (Rattanawapi), Bueng Kan (Bueng Kan city, Pak Khat), Udon Thani (Wang Sam Mo, Nong Han), Yasothon (Yasothon city, Maha Chanachai), Roi Et (Thung Khao Luang, Phanom Phrai, Suwannaphum, Selaphum, Nong Hi, At Samat), Surin (Kab Cheing, Buachet, Sangkha), Sisaket (Sila Lat, Phusing), and Ubon Ratchathani (Khong Chiam, Sirindhorn, Phibun Mangsahan, Si Mueang Mai).
In the Eastern region, Chanthaburi Province (Chanthaburi City, Khlung, Tha Mai, Na Yai Am, Makham, Laem Sing) and Trat Province (Trat City, Khao Saming, Bo Rai) are identified as at risk.
For the Southern region, areas of concern include Ranong Province (Ranong City, Kapoe, La-un, Kra Buri) and Phang Nga Province (Kuraburi, Takua Pa, Kapong, Thai Mueang).
In addition to these areas, authorities are also monitoring reservoirs across several provinces, including Chiang Mai, Lampang, Nan, and others, which are exceeding 80% of their capacity. Urgent measures are being taken to drain water from these reservoirs to accommodate incoming rainfall, particularly in reservoirs like Huai Thong and Huai Suang in Sakon Nakhon, and natural water sources such as Kwan Phayao and Nong Harn.
The ONWR emphasizes the need for local agencies to follow five key measures to manage the situation effectively. These include monitoring rainfall, maintaining embankments, preparing personnel and machinery, raising public awareness, and closely monitoring the Mekong River's water levels, especially in provinces like Nong Khai.