BANGKOK, THAILAND – Experts warned of an extreme drought period that could hit the country hard for several years. The El Niño weather phenomenon is causing record heat and dangerous dryness in many provinces. The government is already preparing emergency plans and financial aid for affected farmers.
Dangerous Heat Threatens Harvests
The agencies GISTDA and ONWR issued a serious warning on April 28. El Niño will have a firm grip on Thailand for the next two to three years.
Especially in 2027, experts expect a marked deterioration of the situation. Temperatures could rise to 44 degrees Celsius and destroy soil moisture.
Reservoirs Need Long-Term Planning
Water management must now plan two years in advance because of the looming crisis. Only this way can the population’s supply be secured until 2028.
Although large dams like the Bhumibol Dam still have reserves, the situation is regionally critical. Drought emergencies have already been declared in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon.
High-Tech Against Drought
The space agency GISTDA is using modern satellite technology to support farmers in their planning. Special apps help monitor moisture in the fields precisely.
A worrying dry period is forecast especially for the months of August and September. Farmers are therefore urged to save water and only grow robust crops.
Billions in Aid for Agriculture
The government plans a massive emergency credit decree worth 500,000 million Baht to safeguard the economy. This money is intended to cushion the effects of El Niño and rising energy prices.
The Bank for Agriculture is also preparing direct financial support measures for affected farms. Farmers outside artificial irrigation zones in particular need immediate help.
Hard Times for Thailand’s Farmers
The prolonged drought threatens the livelihoods of millions of people in the agricultural sector. Without sufficient water and state support, many families face an uncertain future.