As torrential rains drench the southern regions of Thailand, residents are being urged to stay vigilant in anticipation of potential flash floods. Starting from Wednesday and expected to persist until Saturday, the deluge targets numerous provinces, including Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and others nestled in Thailand’s southern embrace. Behind this ominous forecast is Surasri Kidtimonton, the astute secretary-general of the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), who is championing the call for caution.
The meteorological waltz of the monsoon trough currently hovering over the Upper South is orchestrating a symphony of heavy rain in these areas. As reservoirs teeter on the brink of full capacity at an eye-popping 80%, locals are urged to be extra cautious and keep an eagle eye on water levels, warns Mr. Surasri on a rainy Wednesday morning.
In the picturesque locales of Phetchaburi, a heavy downpour accompanied by gusty winds kicked off the weather festivities late Tuesday night. As dawn unfurled its curtain on Wednesday, roads such as Khiriratthaya and Ratchadamnoen were submerged under a rebellious half-meter of water—undeterred by the inconvenient timing. Meanwhile, sections of Phetkasem Road in Cha-am wore a watery coat of similar dimensions, as Kaeng Krachan district grappled with its own set of woes. Here, Mother Nature’s tantrum uprooted trees, which, in turn, toppled power lines and plunged the area into a blackout.
Not to be outdone by the elements, Thetsaban 1 School in Cha-am found itself rewriting exam schedules—the tests originally slated for Wednesday were conveniently nudged to Thursday, making room for nature’s impromptu water sports.
But the South isn’t the only scene of the show. The Office of the National Water Resources has trained its lenses on the Central region as well, issuing a high-tide serenade along the Chao Phraya, Tha Chin, and Mae Klong rivers. From the bustling cityscape of Samut Prakan and Bangkok to the less frenzied locales of Nonthaburi and Pathum Thani, the message rings loud and clear: prepare for potential waterworks from Sunday through October 24, as Mr. Surasri advises.
Further north in Chai Nat, the flooding tale follows a less tumultuous arc. The waters in Muang, Manorom, and Wat Sing districts have obediently receded, as the Chao Phraya River sits comfortably below its banks. Yet, this is no time to rest on laurels. Downstream in Sapphaya, the dam’s persistent release of excess waters—at an impressive rate of 2,199 cubic meters per second—ensures that the area continues its watery dalliance. The saga continues for a fourth day running.
Meanwhile, the story in Ayutthaya took a dramatic turn on Wednesday. The province received an unceremonious gift from the north—a rush of run-off from the Chao Phraya River. This unexpected delivery has intensified flooding, expanding flood-prone areas and reminding the locals that, sometimes, nature throws a party and it’s best to come prepared.
These floods just keep hitting Thailand year after year. Isn’t there a better system we could put in place to manage this?
Man can’t fight nature, Larry. We just gotta deal with it as it comes, like we’ve always done.
I get that, but with the technology we have, surely there’s a way to minimize losses and improve the response system.
It’s heartbreaking to see these recurring disasters. Why isn’t the government implementing stronger flood defenses?
It’s all about priorities and budget, Sophie. Maybe the government doesn’t see flood prevention as a priority.
Has anyone considered that climate change is making these floods worse? We need to address the root cause.
Climate change is always the scapegoat. Floods have been happening way before it became a buzzword.
True, Joe, but data shows increased frequency and intensity, which should start the climate conversation.
Saw a video of the overturned trees. Absolutely chaotic! Nature’s wrath is not something to be taken lightly.
That’s true, Chris. But living in harmony with nature means accepting these dangers too.
What about the animals caught in these floods? I heard rescue efforts are weak.
Animal rescue often takes a backseat in disasters. We need more awareness on this issue.
Are schools seriously postponing exams because of rain? That’s just an excuse for more chaos.
Come on, Johnny. It’s a safety issue. Better to postpone than to risk children’s lives.
There’s been a lot of finger-pointing at ONWR, but isn’t it time we start taking personal responsibility as residents?
It’s hard to take personal responsibility when you’re drowning, Sam. The government needs to step up.
I wonder if this will finally provoke some serious action from Thai authorities. They can’t keep ignoring these problems.
Hope springs eternal, David. But history shows change often comes after great loss.
Every flood is a reminder that we need to respect and learn from nature, not just exploit it.
It sounds like chaos down there, but it’s also an opportunity for resilience and community strength.
Yeah, that’s the spirit! Bring people together, help each other out.
I’m surprised there’s not more international aid given how frequently this happens.
I think Thailand’s resilient enough. They bounce back every time.
Resilience is good, but prevention is better, John.
The updates from Surasri are crucial, but they need more comprehensive follow-through plans.
Can’t leave everything to the authorities. Community actions can make a huge difference.
Been to Phetchaburi last year. It’s sad to think about its current state.
Every disaster draws attention, but sustained efforts are what really matter.
Always a cycle, disaster happens then forgotten, until the next.
Seeing more local efforts in villages. That’s the spirit we need!
At least the schools are adjusting quickly. Gotta keep educating the kids!