ONWR forecasts heavy rain, storms mid-May as dry season nears end
Now that the dry season is drawing to a close, Thailand can expect to be hit by at least three storms by mid-May, the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) said.
Surasee Kittimonthon, ONWR secretary-general, said at a recent monitoring and assessment meeting on water situations that the dry season is expected to conclude by the end of April. The current water level across the country stands at 45,099 million cubic meters, approximately 55% of capacity and though it is 2% less than the same period last year, it is still satisfactory.
Since the El Niño phenomenon has been causing lower-than-average rainfall in the country, relevant agencies have been devising strategies to optimise water retention during the early dry season to ensure adequate water supply throughout the period. Furthermore, projects suggest a surge in rainfall from mid-May onwards.
Currently, some reservoirs are grappling with low water levels, including the four large dams – Sirikit, Kra Siao, Khlong Si Yat and Chulabhorn – along with 85 smaller reservoirs. The authorities have recommended precautionary measures to mitigate the risk of prolonged dry spells. Therefore, rice farmers who have already harvested their second crop are urged to abstain from planting a third crop and to monitor government advisories to avert possible water shortages that could adversely impact agricultural output.
Amid the ongoing dry season, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has designated specific areas as emergency assistance zones in the provinces of Kanchanaburi, Chonburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan and Buri Ram.
As of April 9, Buri Ram added another three villages to the list of emergency assistance zones. Collaborations between the ONWR and related agencies are underway to address and alleviate the situation.
“This year’s drought is primarily characterised by water scarcity for consumption rather than widespread drought conditions. Nevertheless, the authorities are diligently expediting relief efforts,” Surasee said.
“The ONWR will continue field visits to oversee the implementation of drought relief measures for the dry season. Plans are underway to visit three provinces – Phitsanulok, Trang and Krabi – in May. With the potential onset of the La Niña phenomenon, there is a statistical likelihood of encountering up to three storms next month,” he concluded.
