Report Thailand Issues Flood and Landslide Alert for 52 Provinces

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Photo of Mueang district of Sukhothai courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued an urgent warning to 52 provinces across Thailand, advising them to brace for potential flash floods, forest run-off, landslides, and flooding from today, May 23, through May 27. This alert follows a forecast from the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) indicating a surge in the southwest monsoon’s strength, affecting the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, alongside a monsoon trough traversing northern and upper southern regions.

 

Phaskorn Boonlaksm, director-general of the DDPM, emphasized that these weather conditions could lead to increased rainfall across parts of the country. The National Water Resources Office highlighted areas with reservoirs at over 80% capacity as particularly at risk for flooding and landslides.

 

The provinces on high alert span all regions of Thailand:

 

Northern Region: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Uttaradit, Tak, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Uthai Thani.

 

Northeastern Region: Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani.

 

Central Region: Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Chanthaburi, Trat, and Phetchaburi.

 

Southern Region: Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Yala, Narathiwat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi.

 

Medium and small reservoirs above 80% capacity in selected provinces require careful monitoring to prevent spillover and related hazards.

 

To mitigate risks, DDPM has coordinated with local disaster prevention and mitigation centres, ensuring readiness for quick response. Officials in at-risk areas have been instructed to keep abreast of meteorological data, monitor water levels, and be prepared to enact emergency measures. Natural tourist attractions will receive close attention, with restricted access as necessary.

 

Emergency machinery and crisis response teams stand by to deliver immediate assistance, while the public is encouraged to stay informed via the THAI DISASTER ALERT app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, and through DDPM’s official social channels.

 

Individuals in affected regions should regularly check for updates and follow official advisories to minimize risk. Those in distress can contact assistance services through the Line application at ID @1784DDPM or call the 24-hour hotline at 1784 for support.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23