Bangkok Riverside Communities Put on Alert as Chao Phraya Levels Rise

Bangkok Riverside Communities Put on Alert as Chao Phraya Levels Rise

Bangkok authorities have warned residents and businesses along the Chao Phraya River to prepare for higher water levels as releases from Chao Phraya Dam are increased. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration says the river could rise by between 0.61 and 1.50 metres, putting low-lying communities outside flood barriers at particular risk. Runoff from northern and upper central Thailand, combined with rising tributaries, is expected to increase over the next one to nine days, prompting dam releases of between 700 and 1,000 cubic metres per second. Residents have been advised to move valuables and electrical appliances to higher ground, inspect electrical systems, prepare sandbags and closely follow official updates. Anyone experiencing flooding, backed-up water or sudden surges in Bangkok can contact the BMA’s 24-hour hotline at 1555.