The La Niña phenomenon could potentially spell trouble for Thailand, heightening the risk of widespread flooding, especially in low-lying areas like Bangkok and Samut Prakan. Environmental expert Sonthi Kotchawat from Thai Environmental Academics recently sounded the alarm on social media, urging the government to implement robust measures to mitigate flood risks. According to Sonthi, the weather oscillation linked with La Niña is poised to bring increased rainfall across the nation.
Bangkok and Samut Prakan are particularly vulnerable due to their coastal proximity and dense jungle of high-rise buildings. These skyscrapers can significantly reduce wind speeds, leading to more intense and prolonged downpours. Additionally, their strategic position in the Central Plains means they bear the brunt of water run-off from upstream provinces, particularly during the peak monsoon months of August to October.
“Already, provinces such as Chon Buri, Rayong, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son have reported above-average rainfall,” Mr. Sonthi noted. “The government must step up its flood prevention efforts proactively.” Indeed, between May 20 and August 15, average precipitation was about 15% higher compared to the same period last year, with floods hitting 37 provinces.
Weather forecasters are predicting that the La Niña effect will likely kick in during the second half of this year, bringing with it higher-than-average rainfall for regions like southern Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia from December through to August next year. This means Thailand’s “cool” season could be cooler and wetter than usual, bringing a double whammy of chill and rain.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) confirmed that La Niña will affect the country’s weather until early next year. Thailand can expect heavy rainfall through the monsoon season, along with intense tropical storms, particularly in August and September.
As always, preparation is key to mitigating the impacts of these natural phenomena. The government needs to implement flood defenses and develop efficient water management systems to protect susceptible areas. The double threat of decreased wind speeds brought on by high-rise buildings and increased rainfall calls for innovative architectural and infrastructural solutions. Only through proactive efforts can Thailand hope to brace itself against the powerful forces of nature that La Niña brings.
This is alarming! Why isn’t the government already doing more to prevent flooding? They’ve known La Niña was coming for months.
True, but the problem is also about poor urban planning. Those skyscrapers in Bangkok make flooding worse!
Exactly! We need better infrastructure and also need to stop building in flood-prone areas.
But what about the people who already live there? Can’t just tell them to move.
The government is not that ineffective. They’ve done plenty of work on this issue. The weather is just unpredictable.
I disagree. Procrastination has been a major issue. We need more proactive measures.
Absolutely! More proactive and scientifically informed policies!
It’s sad that we repeatedly face these issues every year. Climate change is real, and the authorities need to act now.
Climate change is a hoax. This is just natural weather cycles.
Science disagrees with you. The data on climate change is overwhelming.
Couldn’t agree more, Mike. Ignoring science will only make things worse.
Bangkok needs better water management systems. Look at how the Netherlands handles flooding!
Sure, but implementing such systems requires funding and political will.
That’s exactly what we need! Funding and the will to stop being reactive.
Why are they not using technology to predict and prepare? It feels like they are stuck in the past.
They do use some advanced tech but perhaps not to its fullest potential due to resource limitations.
Then we need to allocate more resources towards this. It’s an investment in our future.
Proactive measures are essential. Waiting for disaster before acting is just reckless.
Agreed! Why can’t they ever act before it’s too late?
I wonder if this increased rainfall can be used positively, perhaps improved agriculture?
I lived in Samut Prakan, and the flooding was terrible last time. This sounds like a nightmare waiting to happen again.
I feel you. It’s a mess, and the government isn’t doing enough.
Is there any chance the predictions are wrong, and we might not get so much rain?
Highly unlikely. The La Niña phenomenon is well-documented and quite predictable.
Education about flood preparedness should be a priority. People need to know how to look after themselves too!
Natural disasters are unavoidable, but effective management can save lives.
Yes, but politicians are always looking for short-term gains.
The real issue here is corruption. Funds allocated for flood management often get siphoned off.
That’s a harsh accusation. Any evidence?
Plenty of journalistic reports on this. Just search for it.
Why are we just talking about Bangkok? What about other vulnerable regions?
La Niña is natural, but our response to it doesn’t have to be. It’s high time we get ahead of these problems.
You’re right. New policies should focus on sustainability and long-term solutions.
Some places don’t have the luxury of being well-prepared. Rural areas suffer the most.
Exactly. And they often get the least help from the government.
Environmental experts like Kotchawat are essential. Glad to see his warnings are being taken seriously.
Any news on specific measures the government plans to take?
They’ve discussed increasing drainage capacity but no concrete plans announced yet.