Thailand Launches 24-Hour Crisis Response for Northern Floods and Drought
Thailand has activated a 24-hour crisis response center to tackle severe flooding and drought across the North, deploying emergency funds and technology including drones to accelerate relief and recovery efforts.
Deputy Prime Minister Yotsanan Wongsuwan, also serving as Minister of Higher Education and chair of the Northern flood and drought mitigation committee, has ordered a 24-hour war room to address floods and drought across the North. All relevant agencies are instructed to adopt proactive operational approaches to combat severe weather, including heavy rain, flash floods, flashy streams, and drought in certain areas. The government has directed high-risk provinces to use emergency state funds for immediate disaster relief without allowing administrative procedures to hinder assistance delivery, with priority given to vulnerable populations. For longer-term strategies in drought-threatened areas, the government will expedite water source evaluations, reserve drinking water supplies, and work with farmers to adapt cultivation plans.
Yotsanan previously held a regional committee meeting with representatives from northern provinces responsible for flood and drought response to assess the situation and implement policy directives. Key outcomes include establishing a command and control system, setting up a 24-hour monitoring war room, and implementing close situation tracking. The effort also integrates innovation through partnerships with local universities, temporary shelter centers, and technology such as drones for area surveys, telemetry systems, and warning applications to strengthen evacuation and public assistance efficiency, along with accelerated dredging of major rivers. These policies and guidelines aim to prevent and mitigate flooding and drought in the North.
Currently, the North is experiencing flooding, mudslides, and flashy stream flooding affecting residential areas and agricultural lands in several northern provinces. The northeastern region also faces flooding, particularly in areas bordering the Mekong River where water levels have exceeded banks. The government's introduction of technological innovation to prevent and manage these natural disasters in the North represents a new and challenging approach. Beyond prevention and mitigation, rapid area recovery and rehabilitation are critical to help affected residents return to normal life quickly.
