Report Sirikit Dam Prepares for Heavy Rain with More Discharge

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Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

 

In anticipation of impending heavy rains, Thailand's Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has increased water release from the Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit province. This move aims to manage reservoir levels effectively, crucial as the dam's capacity has exceeded 80%.

 

The push for accelerated discharge stems from tropical storm Wipha, which has significantly increased inflow levels. Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, who chairs the National Water Resources Committee, noted the dam's strategic role in controlling water flow to prevent flooding downstream, particularly in the Yom River Basin.

 

With rainfall decreasing in upper regions, river levels have begun to fall, easing flood conditions in the Yom-Nan basins. In response, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) has gradually ramped up the dam's water release, reaching 45 million cubic metres per day by 4th August. This is set to increase to 50 million cubic metres until mid-August.

 

The initiative aims to create buffer capacity for upcoming rains, while a government-led effort ensures rigorous monitoring and adjustment of water management plans to prioritise public safety both upstream and downstream.

 

Currently, water discharged from Sirikit Dam has reached Phitsanulok and is expected in Nakhon Sawan within days. Authorities assure that this will not impact the Chao Phraya barrage, which manages water flow to the Central Plains and Bangkok.

 

Nevertheless, with forecasts predicting more rain in the North, residents downstream of the Chao Phraya are urged to safeguard belongings against potential flooding.

 

To enhance efficiency, a specialised subcommittee is analysing weather and water levels, ensuring optimal reservoir management throughout the rainy season. Nationally, large and medium reservoirs hold 50.2 billion cubic metres – 66% of their capacity – with space for an additional 26.2 billion cubic metres.

 

In the Chao Phraya Basin alone, the four key dams hold 17 billion cubic metres, representing 69% of their capacity. Recent rains have pushed Sirikit Dam levels past 80%, prompting the increased discharge of 45–50 million cubic metres daily. Authorities stress this adjustment will not endanger downstream communities.

 

As Thailand braces for further rain, vigilance and strategic water management remain paramount in safeguarding regions from flooding, while ensuring efficient use of reservoir resources. The actions taken underscore the delicate balance between harnessing and controlling natural water flows in face of unpredictable weather patterns.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-06

 

[Crossy]

I'd better get the Bangkok river level thread out of mothballs.