Thai Authorities Implement Multi-Country Water Control Strategy Over Mekong River Flood Concerns
Breaking: Thailand Braces for Heavy Rainfall
With forecasts predicting potentially record-breaking rainfall, Thailand's Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) is springing into action. Secretary-General of ONWR, Dr Surasri Kidtimonton, has emphasized the need for proactive basin-level management and increased cross-border coordination to tackle the upcoming deluge.
Over the weekend, Dr Surasri chaired a meeting of the Sub-Committee on Water Resources Management. The Meteorological Department's predictions suggest overall rainfall this year will surpass normal averages by around 5-10 percent, with heavy downpours expected particularly in July. That's why special attention is being paid to Chiang Rai province and the Mae Sai River, where dredging operations are almost complete.
Enhanced flood preparedness includes engaging governors from border provinces in discussions and receiving the latest forecast data. According to Dr Surasri, the Mekong River Commission Secretariat (MRCS) has warned that July may see some areas overflowing their banks, mirroring predictions of heavy rains for Thailand's Mekong River basin.
Collaboration with the MRCS extends to preventative strategies and data sharing, with Thailand, Laos, and the MRC forming an Ad Hoc Flood Task Team. Their objective: facilitate data exchange for flood-prone areas, issue warnings, and collaboratively manage the Mekong's water levels. This includes collecting dam data from Laos' numerous tributary dams.
In case of significant rainfall, plans are in place for pre-emptive draining and discharge to alleviate potential overflows. Defensive measures are also underway, such as constructing temporary embankments, arranging standardized sandbags, and safeguarding vulnerable sites.
ONWR will consistently monitor the situation while collaborating closely with provincial governors along the Mekong. Reservoirs like Huai Luang, Nam Phung, and Nam Oon are encouraged to speed up their draining schedules to make room for the expected heavy rains.
Preliminary forecasts indicate Thailand could experience one to two tropical storms between August and October. While the El Niño-Southern Oscillation is currently neutral, the La Niña phenomenon could return around October, increasing rainfall and necessitating careful water management.
With all relevant agencies on board, Dr Surasri assures joint water management planning is underway. Enhanced awareness campaigns are also being rolled out to ensure communities are prepared for the impending rainy season and can respond swiftly to any impacts.
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