On September 25, 2024, the Chao Phraya Dam began releasing water at a rate of 1,500 cubic meters per second, prompted by increased rainfall from the northern regions and rising water levels almost a meter high. The Water Resources Office in Chai Nat has issued a warning for riverside areas to prepare for possible flooding.
Due to continuous rises in water levels in the Chao Phraya basin, the dam operators must now manage the release to not exceed 1,500 cubic meters per second, as water levels upstream the dam have increased by 60 cm. This is in line with the national flood response plan, which anticipates flash floods in vulnerable areas until September 25, 2024.
The Director of Water Resources Office 12, Wajra Kraisai, has communicated the situation to the Chai Nat Governor, emphasizing the necessity of temporarily storing water above the dam to manage downstream risks, maintaining levels below +17.00 meters.
Agencies, businesses, and local residents alongside the Chao Phraya River have been urged to closely monitor the situation and remain vigilant.
As of now, the water flow measures at various stations indicate a steady volume, with the flow at the Chao Phraya Dam recorded at 1,399 cubic meters per second. It is essential for residents in the vicinity of the river to be aware of the current conditions as water levels could rise significantly.
Director of the Chao Phraya Water Management Project, Thelerngkit Suwannachat, emphasizes that the dam is actively managing the water flow to prevent damage to homes along the river. He advises residents to remain attentive to the situation as continued rainfall could lead to the highest water discharge from the dam.
The government is committed to effective water management to minimize impacts on local communities during this period.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
