Bangkok warns Chao Phraya residents over rising water

Bangkok authorities have warned people living and working along both banks of the Chao Phraya River to prepare for higher water levels as releases from Chao Phraya Dam are increased.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said the river could rise by 0.61 to 1.50 metres from its present level, with low-lying areas outside flood embankments, riverside communities and other vulnerable locations at risk of inundation.

The warning follows forecasts that water volumes in northern areas and tributaries will continue to increase. Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reports and statistical data indicate that run-off from the North and upper Central region, together with tributary flows, will rise significantly over the next one to nine days.

Dam discharge to be stepped up

To manage the additional water, discharge from Chao Phraya Dam is expected to increase to between 700 and 1,000 cubic metres per second.

The added flow will directly affect water levels in Bangkok and the surrounding metropolitan area, the BMA said.

Particular caution has been urged for communities outside embankments built under a royal initiative. Shop operators, people at piers, and those in homes and buildings beside the Chao Phraya River, Khlong Bank and connected waterways have also been told to monitor conditions closely.

What riverside residents should do

The BMA has advised people in at-risk areas to move valuables, property and electrical appliances to higher ground to reduce potential flood damage.

Residents should inspect cables, sockets and electrical equipment on ground floors or in low-lying locations. Where there is a safety risk, electricity should be switched off.

Sandbags should be prepared to strengthen barriers outside homes or at points where water could enter, while official water-level reports and warnings should be followed regularly.

Reporting flooding and seeking help

Bangkok residents experiencing flooding, backed-up water or sudden water surges can call the BMA's 24-hour hotline on 1555.

Problems can also be reported through the LINE application account @traffyfondue, which allows users to submit complaints and track urban issues. Real-time drainage and water-level information is available through the BMA flood coordination and response centre.

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22 September 2026