Disaster Prevention Department Orders All Provinces to Prepare for Flooding as Cyclone Threat Looms
Thailand's Disaster Prevention Department has ordered all provinces to prepare for potential flooding as a cyclone threatens to bring heavy rainfall to western regions during the upcoming monsoon season starting late May.
On May 21, 2025, Theeraphot Khatcamat, director-general of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, revealed that Thailand is entering the monsoon season in late May with decreasing temperatures and increased rainfall. A cyclone may form in the Andaman Sea or Bay of Bengal and approach or enter Thailand's western region, potentially causing heavy to severe rainfall in many areas and triggering flash floods, flash flooding, and riverbank overflow in some locations.
Prime Minister Anuwat Charnvirakul, serving as the national disaster prevention and mitigation commander, has instructed all provincial disaster prevention and mitigation centers to prepare and address flooding throughout the 2025 monsoon season. Preparedness measures include closely monitoring weather conditions, water levels, and potential disaster events while updating and developing emergency response plans. Authorities will inspect equipment, materials, and machinery for readiness and verify the structural integrity of water retention and flood barrier facilities.
Public awareness campaigns will be conducted through all communication channels and local mechanisms to inform residents of the situation, preparedness guidelines, and safe practices. In response to actual or anticipated flooding, windstorms, or landslides, provincial and district emergency operations centers will be established to coordinate resources and operations.
When heavy, cumulative, or sudden intense rainfall (rain bomb) creates high risk of flooding, residents will be evacuated to safe areas with temporary shelters providing basic necessities. For strong winds, high waves, or coastal surge, relevant agencies will issue maritime navigation warnings requiring strict safety protocols. Community leaders will continuously inform residents in vulnerable coastal areas of potential impacts.
