Thailand Seeks to Improve Weather Service Communication

On September 29, 2569, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachot Chidchob spoke at Government House about progress following the Prime Minister's directive to the Meteorological Department to improve how it communicates with the public. He said the department has made changes to its posting guidelines with better feedback, but wants further improvement beyond just posting more frequently during crises.

When asked about criticism that the Meteorological Department reports information late—after incidents occur—Chidchot said the department must be investigated on cause and effect. He noted the Meteorological Department issues alerts as quickly as possible, and although data may not be 100 percent accurate, it is issued with confidence to avoid public alarm. He explained that the department issues forecasts that can change; information known two weeks in advance can still shift, so people wait for updates one week or three days before for certainty. Going forward, he said, the department must communicate ahead of time, explaining the current situation clearly and what may happen, so citizens can prepare accordingly.

On making the language simpler for the public, Chidchot said water quantity information can be simplified, but recommendations on how to respond fall to the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department and other agencies. When asked how to rebuild public trust in the Meteorological Department—given that some people trust other pages more—he said the department must prove itself but stressed that all published weather information originates from the Meteorological Department's data. Going forward, the department must communicate boldly with the public and refine its communication approach with greater detail, while upgrading staff and technology. He said he has maintained this policy whether or not a crisis occurs.