Government warns Chao Phraya communities as dam releases rise

Bangkok — Authorities have cautioned residents in communities near the Chao Phraya River to prepare for increased water levels following a boost in water releases from the Chao Phraya Dam. This comes as water flow towards the dam is anticipated to escalate to 3,600-3,700 cubic metres per second in the coming days, with the highest flow projected at approximately 3,000 cubic metres per second at the C.2 monitoring station in Nakhon Sawan on October 2.

The Royal Irrigation Department revealed that an additional 700-750 cubic metres per second will flow into the Chao Phraya from nearby tributaries, with 550-580 cubic metres per second being redirected into irrigation systems on both sides of the river. Elevated water discharge necessitates close monitoring of low-lying areas outside flood barriers, especially along the Chao Phraya and Noi rivers, particularly in Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Sing Buri, and Chai Nat provinces.

Officials in Ayutthaya have highlighted districts such as Sena, Phak Hai, Bang Ban, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Bang Pa-in, and Bang Sai as areas requiring heightened vigilance. In Ang Thong, monitoring focuses on Wiset Chai Chan, Pa Mok, Mueang Ang Thong, and Chaiyo. Similarly, in Sing Buri, areas such as In Buri, Phrom Buri, Mueang Sing Buri, and Sapphaya district are under surveillance.

In Chai Nat, the district of Sapphaya is included in the watch list. The Royal Irrigation Department emphasized that the heightened discharge will not impact communities within flood barriers but urged residents in low-lying areas outside barriers and along both rivers to remain vigilant. Government deputy spokesperson Phatdarasmi Thongsaluaykorn advised residents to take preventive measures, including relocating electrical appliances, essential documents, and valuables to higher ground, as well as moving vehicles, livestock, and farming equipment to safer locations.

They were also instructed to stock up on essential supplies, note emergency contact information, and stay informed through official updates on water levels and potential evacuation warnings. The government has previously issued a warning to authorities in 11 provinces along the Chao Phraya basin, including Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Lop Buri, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, and Bangkok.

This latest warning serves as a preemptive measure to ensure preparedness, rather than suggesting that communities inside flood barriers will be adversely affected. The Royal Irrigation Department will persist in monitoring rainfall, upstream water volumes, and river levels, adjusting its water management plan as circumstances evolve.