Thailand is speeding up flood drainage as Bangkok and 10 central provinces remain on flood alert, with more heavy rain expected from October 4 to 7.
Several reservoirs are under pressure following heavy rainfall. Pa Sak Jolasid Dam is at 109% of storage capacity, while Prasae Reservoir is at 105%. Vajiralongkorn Dam is at 99%, with other reservoirs also approaching their storage limits.
Authorities are releasing water gradually from some reservoirs while diverting flows through irrigation systems and retention areas. The measures are intended to reduce pressure on the main river systems while limiting the impact on downstream communities.
For example, Chao Phraya Dam increased its discharge to 2,500 cubic metres per second early on October 2. Authorities are monitoring the situation and may adjust releases depending on water flows.
Thailand is also accelerating efforts to drain floodwater into the Gulf of Thailand as authorities prepare for another period of heavy rain in the coming days.
More rain expected this week
Rain is expected to increase first in the North and Northeast on October 4 before spreading to the Central region, including Bangkok, as well as the East and South on October 5–6. Some areas could see heavy to very heavy rain, with a risk of flash floods and runoff.
The forecast comes as authorities are using the current break in rainfall to clear water from flood-affected areas.
High tides in early October could make it more difficult to drain water into the Gulf, according to ONWR.
The government is also preparing additional pumps, boats and other equipment for areas that could be affected by the next round of rain.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed provincial authorities to maintain readiness along major rivers, including the Chao Phraya, Tha Chin and Mae Klong.
