Large Water Mass Expected Tonight as Samut Songkhram Prepares

On September 29, Samut Songkhram Governor Chaychai Saengin convened an emergency coordination meeting with relevant agencies to track water levels, dam releases, weather conditions, and potential impacts on residents. Although rainfall has begun to ease, water previously discharged from Mae Klong Dam has already started reaching Samut Songkhram, spreading through tributaries and canals; water levels in the province have not risen dramatically so far. However, authorities remain vigilant as a major water mass being released at 1,200–1,666 cubic meters per second is expected to arrive this evening or by tomorrow morning, requiring approximately 24 hours to travel from the dam to the province.

The meeting also closely monitored Vachiralongkorn Dam, where reservoir levels remain high and water management is critical. The water mass is forecast to flow through the Mae Klong river system and reach downstream areas, including Samut Songkhram, around Friday. The governor ordered all agencies to monitor the situation continuously, especially in areas along the Mae Klong River, low-lying zones, and risk points. Authorities are urging residents to move belongings to higher ground and are preparing temporary shelters, emergency response teams, and equipment to assist the elderly, bedridden patients, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. Citizens are advised to stay informed through official announcements.

A reporter surveying conditions on the Mae Klong River observed turbid, fast-flowing water with levels overflowing along some riverbanks despite being in the low-water season, indicating water volumes requiring close monitoring. Residents living near the river and in low-lying areas are hastily relocating belongings and valuables to higher ground in preparation for potential flooding this evening through tomorrow, while continuing to monitor official warnings and stay ready for the incoming water mass.