The Royal Irrigation Department’s announcement on September 24, reports that the Ping River’s water level is expected to peak at 4.5 meters between 3:00 AM to 5:00 AM on September 25, with no significant increases anticipated thereafter.
As of 6:30 PM on September 24, residents are flocking to various spots to observe the river’s water level, particularly near the Natarat Bridge in Chiang Mai, creating heavy traffic on both sides of Mahidol Road as they prepare.
Local police have set up tents on Mahidol Road and deployed officers to ensure the safety of parked vehicles, preventing potential theft.
The Irrigation Office’s prediction indicates that the water level at P.67 in Mae Taeng District is rising and will reach gauge P.1 at Natarat Bridge, peaking at 4.5 meters, during the aforementioned timeframe. It is advised to monitor the situation closely as the peak is expected around 9:00 PM on the same day, stabilizing afterward and not replicating the heavy flooding experienced in 2022.
According to Assoc. Prof. Chuchok Uayphong, head of the Chiang Mai University Disaster Management Center, waters from nearby districts like Chiang Dao and Mae Rim will contribute to rising levels at station P.67. It is projected that the levels will increase significantly by 30 centimeters during the next four hours, but the upper Ping River has seen limited overtopping due to its wide banks, although low-lying areas might still be at risk.
This year, there are no significant factors like heavy rainfall or multiple water masses as seen in 2022, since continuous drainage from tributaries has helped mitigate flooding risks. However, residents are advised to raise their belongings to higher ground in preparation for any unforeseen events, allowing a leeway of approximately 10 centimeters for safety.
Comparatively, historical flooding in 2022 reached levels of 4.20 meters, with a record high of 4.65 meters leading to extensive overflow. The authorities are monitoring situations closely and have already flagged significant water levels at P.1 Natarat Bridge, which recorded 3.81 meters at 6:00 PM on September 24, 2023.
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This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
