Tidal Surge Warning for Six Central Provinces and Bangkok
Thailand's disaster agency has issued a tidal surge warning for six central provinces and Bangkok from November 9-17, forecasting water levels that could exceed critical thresholds along the Chao Phraya River. Authorities warn of potential overflow into low-lying riverside communities and areas without permanent flood barriers, urging residents and businesses to prepare for possible flooding.
On November 7, 2026, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Director-General Niwat Phongsitthaworn stated that the department, acting as the Central Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command, has been monitoring water conditions and assessing risk factors. Together with the Hydrographic Department and the Royal Thai Navy, they issued Announcement No. 15/2026 dated November 5, 2026, regarding water levels in the Chao Phraya River at the Phra Chulachomklao Fort area and surrounding vicinity for November 9-17, 2026.
The announcement indicates that from November 9-16, 2026, between 07:30-13:30, high tidal surges are expected at the Naval Command area and surroundings, with water levels forecast at 1.70-2.00 meters above mean sea level, nearing the critical level of 2.00 meters. This could cause water to seep through joints in dams, piers, and drainage pipes.
From November 9-17, 2026, between 06:00-12:00, water levels at Phra Chulachomklao Fort and nearby areas are projected at 1.80-1.90 meters above mean sea level, exceeding the critical level of 1.70 meters. This may lead to overflow conditions and rising river and canal levels, potentially flooding low-lying areas along rivers and canals, including communities outside flood embankments and areas without permanent flood protection.
The six central provinces on alert are:
Pathum Thani Province: Mueang Pathum Thani and Sam Khok Districts Nonthaburi Province: Mueang Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, and Bang Kruai Districts Nakhon Pathom Province: Bang Len, Nakhon Chai Si, and Sam Phran Districts Samut Sakhon Province: All districts Samut Songkhram Province: All districts Samut Prakan Province: Mueang Samut Prakan, Phra Samut Chedi, Phra Pradaeng, and Bang Bo Districts
Bangkok is also urged to monitor areas along the Chao Phraya River and canals, especially low-lying zones, communities outside flood embankments, and areas without permanent flood barriers.
The Central Command has coordinated with the six provinces and Bangkok to prepare for potential tidal surge impacts, including overflow and flooding along rivers and canals. They are closely monitoring water levels and tidal conditions while disseminating high-tide schedules to at-risk residents. Relevant agencies and private businesses operating on rivers and canals — such as emergency dam construction projects, raft restaurants, and other enterprises — have been alerted to prepare for possible impacts. Authorities are also closely watching low-lying riverside areas, communities outside embankments, and areas lacking permanent flood protection.
The public is advised to closely follow official water situation updates and news, particularly residents living along the Chao Phraya River, canals, and low-lying areas. They should watch for rising water levels during high-tide periods, prepare flood prevention measures for homes and businesses, and exercise caution when traveling or conducting activities near rivers and canals.
