The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued an urgent weather warning for 33 provinces across Thailand, spanning the North, Northeast, Central, and South regions.
The alert, in effect from July 6 to 12, warns of flash floods, forest runoff, landslides, and rising water levels in major rivers, particularly the Mekong.
The announcement was made at 3pm on Saturday, urging authorities in high-risk zones to closely monitor rainfall and local water levels, especially in areas where precipitation exceeds 90 millimetres within a 24-hour period.
The DDPM emphasised the importance of early warning systems, reinforcing flood defences, and clearing blockages in waterways to ensure smooth water flow from upstream to downstream.
According to DDPM director-general Phasakorn Boonyalak, the warning follows forecasts released by the National Water Resources Office on Friday, which predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall across several regions.
The agency cited increased risks of flash flooding, landslides, and extended inundation, particularly in urban areas with poor drainage systems and provinces located along the Mekong River, where fluctuating water levels are expected.
Provinces under close watch in the North include Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, and Tak. In the Northeast, authorities are monitoring Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Yasothon, and Ubon Ratchathani.
Central and Eastern provinces such as Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat are also listed, along with southern provinces including Surat Thani, Ranong, Phangnga, and Phuket.
Provincial offices have been directed to accelerate inspections of local reservoirs and release excess water if necessary. Several reservoirs in Sakon Nakhon, Kalasin, and Trat have already exceeded 80% capacity and require immediate discharge to prevent overflow.
Natural water bodies such as Kwan Phayao in Phayao, Nong Han in Sakon Nakhon, and Nong Kut Ting in Bueng Kan are also being monitored.
Additionally, authorities are keeping a close watch on rising water levels in low-lying areas and along key river systems such as the Ing and Sai in Chiang Rai, where flash flooding remains a concern.
Provinces bordering the Mekong have been told to prepare for rapid changes in water levels.
The DDPM also noted that natural tourist sites like waterfalls and caves may be temporarily closed if found to be at risk. Emergency response units and heavy equipment are being mobilised to enable swift action in case of disaster.
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed through official updates, weather forecasts, and alerts from local authorities.
The department recommends downloading the Thai Disaster Alert mobile application or following its official Facebook and X accounts.
For emergency assistance, the DDPM’s 24-hour hotline is available at 1784. Reports can also be submitted via the LINE account @1784DDPM.
