Bangkok: The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has issued a critical alert warning that 11 rivers across the country are at risk of overflowing between September 25-30 due to expected heavy to very heavy rainfall.

According to Thai News Agency, the RID, in conjunction with the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) and the Meteorological Department, has predicted significant rainfall throughout the specified period, posing a threat of river overflow and flooding in low-lying areas. The affected rivers include the Chao Phraya, Mekong, Yom, Huai Luang, Chi, Mun, Tha Chin, Pa Sak, Mae Nam Noi, and Khlong Phong Pheng.

The Chao Phraya River is of particular concern, with areas downstream of the Chao Phraya Dam, including Chainat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan, being at risk. Similarly, riverside areas along the Mekong River in provinces such as Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, and several others are on high alert.

Additional risk zones have been identified along the Yom River in districts within Phrae and Phitsanulok provinces, and the Huai Luang River in Ban Dung District, Udon Thani Province. The Chi River, Mun River, and Tha Chin River have also been highlighted as potential overflow threats in various districts across multiple provinces.

Authorities are actively monitoring regions with rainfall accumulation exceeding 90 mm in 24 hours, ensuring that water barriers are inspected and maintained, and that evacuation plans are ready to be implemented. Communication systems are being strengthened to provide advance warnings to vulnerable communities.

The RID underscores that this period marks the end of the rainy season in Thailand, necessitating heightened vigilance for potential storms. However, an improvement in the water situation is anticipated from the beginning of October, signaling the transition into the winter season.