The Thai government has issued a warning about rising water levels in regions including Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Sukhothai, anticipating severe flood conditions from September 26 to 28. The National Water Resources Office (NWRO) is implementing water diversion plans and concerns are raised about areas that might experience repeat flooding, particularly Sukhothai, where several flood barriers have sustained significant damage. Heavy rainfall is expected again in early October.
As of September 25, 2024, Chiang Mai is already facing flooding with the Ping River reaching a peak level of 4.45 meters, breaching its banks and inundating low-lying areas. Important economic areas like Chang Klan Road have been affected, with water impacting businesses and residences.
Heavy flooding is also reported in the communities of Pa Phrao, where residents are evacuating their belongings. Rescue teams are on site to assist those affected. Relevant agencies were able to provide warnings at least 12 hours in advance, allowing residents to prepare for flooding.
Chiang Mai, Lampang, Sukhothai Prepare for Incoming Floodwaters
According to Thanaroj Wanratprasert, director of the National Water Command Center, flooding in Chiang Mai is expected to worsen due to additional runoff from Mae Taeng District. The highest water levels are anticipated between September 26 and 27, with warnings already communicated to local authorities.
The Wang River is expected to overflow its banks, necessitating increased water discharge from the Kiew Khom Dam in Lampang, affecting downstream areas. In the city of Lampang, low-lying regions are starting to experience flooding. This water mass is expected to move towards Thoen District on September 27 and subsequently to Sam Ngao District in Tak Province.
The Yom River is also projected to receive a surge of approximately 1,200 cubic meters per second, raising concerns about flooding in Sukhothai, particularly as many flood barriers are severely damaged. The peak influx of water is anticipated around September 28.
Northern Floods Exacerbating Conditions in “Ping, Wang, Yom, Nan” Areas
The current flooding situation in northern Thailand has been exacerbated since early September, with Thanaroj highlighting concerns about the Ping, Wang, Yom, and Nan rivers as they are all experiencing higher than usual water levels. Factors include a low-pressure system in the region, contributing to heavier rainfall.
The rise in water temperatures in surrounding oceans is leading to increased evaporation, resulting in a greater density of moisture moving into Thailand, which in turn causes widespread heavy rainfall.
By October, additional monsoonal activity could impact the situation, particularly at the Pasak Cholasit Dam, which is currently at approximately 50% capacity but expected to rise to 80% in about a week.
Should monsoonal systems move through, the Chao Phraya Dam could see flows exceeding 1,500 cubic meters per second as runoff combines with rainwater from northern regions. Authorities are closely monitoring this in Central Thailand for potential impacts during early October.
Residents in the northern provinces, specifically Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phrae, and Sukhothai, should also be wary of another wave of heavy rain expected from September 30 to October 1, which may lead to further flooding risks.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
