Catastrophe Strikes as Dams Exceed Limits
Thailand is embroiled in a severe flooding catastrophe as numerous provinces struggle under intense deluges. Reservoirs have breached capacities, forcing major dams to release water levels at alarming rates. In Ayutthaya, the situation has turned dire with the Chao Phraya Dam discharging 2,200 cubic meters of water per second for four consecutive days. This has resulted in river and canal levels rising by 5-10 centimeters.
The aftermath is catastrophic, as eight districts find themselves underwater: Sena, Bang Ban, Bang Pa-in, Bang Sai, Phak Hai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Bang Pahan, and Maha Rat. The Rama VI Dam in the Tha Ruea District has added to the crisis by releasing 489 cubic meters per second, inundating downstream areas, particularly Wat Satue. Roads in multiple riverside neighborhoods are submerged under 1-1.5 meters of water. This forces residents to resort to boats for travel, living in constant fear as the flood situation worsens by the day.
Agricultural Devastation: Rice Fields Destroyed
The flood’s reach extends to agriculture, wreaking havoc with disastrous ramifications. In Chaiyaphum, relentless rain for nearly a fortnight has submerged six districts and over 40,000 Rai of rice fields. Over 13,000 Rai faces irreversible damage, posing a financial nightmare for thousands of farming families. Governor Anan Nakniyom has ordered authorities to clear water channels to expedite drainage and mitigate losses.
Yet, the crisis intensifies. Reservoirs in Chaiyaphum are nearing their breaking point, with two already surpassing storage limits. The Lam Khan Chu Reservoir stands at 114% capacity, while the Lower Lam Pathao Dam is at 104%. Controlled releases directed through economic zones feed into the Chi River, presenting new dangers for downstream communities. The crisis in Lop Buri is exacerbated by the Pa Sak Jolasid Dam increasing its discharge rate from 500 to 650 cubic meters per second, with daily increments of 50 cubic meters planned.
Chaos in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
In northern Thailand, the situation is worsening dramatically. In Chiang Rai, officials report that the Sai River near the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge is about to overflow. Residents in low-lying communities like Sai Lom Choy, Ko Sai, Mai Lung Khon, and Muang Daeng have been urged to brace for floods and protect vulnerable groups such as the elderly and bedridden.
In Chiang Mai, Mae Chaem faces an even graver situation. The Mae Chaem River has breached its banks, flooding homes in the Chang Khoeng subdistrict, a major community and economic hub. Rapidly rising waters have inundated key areas, including densely populated neighborhoods, government buildings, schools, and business districts. Emergency evacuations have been enforced, with residents urged to move valuables to higher ground. Additionally, agricultural areas in Tha Pha and parts of Chang Khoeng are severely afflicted. District chief Kriangsak Boontapuan has issued urgent directives for officials to assist residents, especially focusing on at-risk groups.
Looming Threat: Typhoon Ragasa
As the current disaster unfolds, a new threat looms large! The Meteorological Department has warned that Typhoon Ragasa could unleash severe to very severe rainfall from Wednesday through early October, heightening risks of flash floods, landslides, and further severe flooding in the northeast. Water levels at Ban Mae No Jorn Bridge have already surged by over five meters, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Authorities are closely monitoring developments and will provide regular updates. Assistance is available via Line ID @1784DDPM or the 24-hour safety hotline 1784.
Downstream river levels are expected to rise by 1.5-1.8 meters, flooding low-lying areas such as the Ton Tan Floating Market in Sao Hai District and communities in Wang Muang and Phatthana Nikhom. Authorities urge residents to stay informed and warn that more dam releases may be necessary if upper basin inflows persist. The combination of waterlogged soil, overburdened dams, and the imminent threat of the typhoon presents a perfect storm for even more catastrophic flooding.