Flood Warning For Residents Near The Chao Phraya River

[Jai Dee]

Irrigation Dept. warns people living by Chao Phraya River of possible flood

The Director-General of the Royal Irrigation Department, Mr. Samart Chokkhanaphitak, warns people living along the riverbanks of Chao Phraya River of possible floods between during October 22nd and 23rd, which is the period of high tides. The water level will increase by 30 to 40 centimeters. Commercial zones in the inner areas Bangkok will not be affected by the inundation.

Mr. Samart said the torrent is recently flowing at 5,956 cubic meters per second, a little more than yesterday, as Bhumibol and Sirikit Dams are now letting go of the water. However, the average water level in the central region is descending.

The water level in Nakhon Sawan will also be stable for over the next four to five days.

Meanwhile, the latest water level in the Chao Phraya River is 1.87 centimeters, and it is expected to be higher by 30 to 40 centimeters during October 22nd and 23rd due to the possible high tides. Director-General Samart said those living in the river banks including people in the provinces of Sing Buri, Chai Nat, and Ang Thong should observe the situation closely.

Mr. Samart added that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Area (BMA) has built dykes in reserve to prepare for the overflow of water during the period of expected high tides.

As for the water diversion to the inner Bangkok, Mr. Samart said that it is the last resort. He has assured that Bangkok’s economic zones will not be affected by floods.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 18 October 2006

[Jai Dee]

More heavy rains expected in central region

The Weather Forecast Bureau under the Meteorological Department announces that an east wind is blowing across Thailand, resulting in scattered rains in Bangkok along with the central and southern regions. Heavy rains are expected in some areas.

Today at 14:00 hours, average to heavy rains (20-40 millimetres) occurred in the upper part of Bangkok and Thonburi areas.

The rains are expected to move to Samut Sakhon and should last for more than an hour.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 18 October 2006