BANGKOK, Thailand – Authorities have warned all 14 southern provinces to prepare for flash floods, forest runoff, overflowing rivers and urban flooding from October 26–29, with heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast in some areas. The National Water Resources Office (ONWR) issued the warning on October 25, citing continuing rain and strengthening monsoon conditions expected to affect the region over the coming days.
The alert covers Chumphon, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Satun, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat. Tourist destinations and urban areas under close watch include Phuket City, Kathu, Thalang, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Hat Yai, Krabi town and Nakhon Si Thammarat, as well as other communities vulnerable to flooding.
Authorities are also monitoring reservoirs holding more than 80% of their storage capacity. These include Ratchaprapha Reservoir in Surat Thani, along with medium-sized and smaller reservoirs across the 14 provinces. Rivers and waterways at risk of sudden rises, overflowing banks and flooding in low-lying areas include the Tapi and Phum Duang rivers in Surat Thani, the Takua Pa River in Phang Nga, the Trang River, and the Pattani and Sai Buri rivers. The Kolok River and Tanyongmas Canal in Narathiwat are also being monitored.
The ONWR has instructed relevant agencies to closely monitor rainfall and water levels, particularly in areas forecast to receive more than 90 millimetres of rain within 24 hours and locations that regularly experience flooding. Preparations include clearing drainage systems and waterways, inspecting river embankments, adjusting reservoir and dam operations, and ensuring personnel, machinery and emergency equipment are ready for deployment.
Officials have also been told to issue advance warnings and prepare for possible evacuations if flooding develops. Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to monitor official announcements and remain alert throughout the warning period. (TNA)
