Floodwaters from Northern Regions Reach Bangkok
Water from severe flooding in northern provinces has begun to flow into Bangkok, raising concerns about potential overflow of the Chao Phraya River, as reported by the Royal Irrigation Department (RID).
The initial wave of floodwaters that impacted northern provinces eight days ago is now entering Bangkok, following increased discharge rates from the Chao Phraya Dam in Chai Nat.
To regulate water levels in downstream channels, the dam released 1,300 cubic meters of water per second on Thursday, an increase from the previous rate of 1,100 cubic meters per second.
The swelling of the Yom and Nan rivers—two of the Chao Phraya’s primary tributaries—has necessitated this adjustment, with the discharge rate expected to remain at 1,300-1,400 cubic meters per second as large volumes of water continue to flow.
Monitoring of rainfall patterns in flood-prone areas will be prioritized, especially from September 1-4, as further heavy rains are anticipated.
The focus regions include the lower North and upper Central Plains provinces, where flooding presents a significant risk, particularly during the rice harvest season, potentially jeopardizing the staple crop.
The main priority lies in managing the primary rivers to handle the excess water, with plans to divert surplus water into empty fields post-harvest to alleviate downstream pressure.
Officials urge residents to remain calm, emphasizing that the surge in water is being managed effectively, posing minimal risk to Bangkok.
Yet, authorities remain alert for additional rainfall. Recent reports indicate over 100 millimeters of rain fell across northern provinces like Chiang Mai and Lamphun, intensifying flooding conditions.
In Sukhothai, effective management at the Hat Saphan Chan sluice gate has helped control water levels in local rivers, averting overflow in several districts.
Currently, more than 70,000 rai of land in Sukhothai is reported flooded, with significant damage affecting agricultural areas, particularly in Sawankhalok district.
Floodwaters have breached barriers, affecting open fields, while excess water from several rivers is being redirected to Bang Rakam field, which can hold up to 62 million cubic meters.
Flooded fields will be drained in preparation for possible additional rainfall in the coming month.
According to the bureau, siphoning water from the Chao Phraya into irrigation canals may be necessary, with more open fields scheduled for water catchment once the current crop harvest concludes around mid-next month.
The National Water Command will determine which fields will be utilized for this purpose.
In response to the situation, Bangkok’s governor has received a donation of 50 sheets of fencing to bolster the hydro fence and help control water levels along the Chao Phraya.
Additionally, the flooding has led to the temporary closure of five state-run clinics in Phrae, with plans to reopen by September 2.
