Disaster Prevention Chief Mobilizes 17 Northern Provinces for Flood Response
Authorities mobilized 17 northern provinces to prepare for above-normal rainfall expected in August, with Chiang Rai, Phetchabun, and Phichit already managing active flooding through coordinated response efforts.
The director-general of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Theeraphatthanakachmatat, chaired a Situation Awareness Team (SAT) meeting on August 2 with representatives from disaster prevention offices in 17 northern provinces, regional emergency centers, and relief volunteers. He reported that August is forecast to receive above-normal rainfall, especially in western, northern, upper northeastern, and eastern regions, with rainfall expected to decline in September and October before heavy rain returns to the southern region in November. All provinces were instructed to monitor conditions closely and prepare response plans in advance.
Theeraphatthanakachmatat noted that Chiang Rai province has experienced flash floods and riverbank overflows in three districts, but the situation has stabilized through round-the-clock coordination. Phetchabun province deployed water pumps to manage floodwaters flowing into surrounding areas with advance Cell Broadcast warnings. Phichit province faced riverbank overflow from heavy rain, with local agencies mobilizing machinery, flat-bottomed boats, and pumps for rapid drainage. Chiang Mai, though monitoring accumulated rainfall, has maintained strict urban flood prevention measures and benefits from adequate reservoir capacity.
The director-general ordered all areas to position emergency machinery in high-risk zones proactively, coordinate with local government and volunteer organizations, clear drainage obstructions, and stock relief supplies. He emphasized the importance of multi-channel public communication through Cell Broadcast, social media, community radio, and local leaders to ensure timely awareness and alert dissemination.
