Thailand orders flood preparedness in 14 southern provinces

The Thai government has issued directives to governors in 14 southern provinces to prepare for potential flooding and droughts. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploytalay Lakmisaengchan stated that while some areas are already experiencing flooding, many others require close monitoring due to rainfall and water scarcity concerns.

Under the instructions of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Piphat Ratchakitprakarn, acting as chairman of the Flood and Drought Prevention and Resolution Committee for Southern Thailand, is overseeing a unified response. The region faces two distinct rainy seasons: the Andaman coast starting in May, and the Gulf of Thailand coast from October through January.

Provincial governors have been ordered to conduct disaster drills and coordinate with local authorities to prepare temporary shelters and vehicle parking areas. To improve management, the government has tasked the Office of National Water Resources, the Royal Irrigation Department, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, and the Meteorological Department with using technology to analyze water data and manage reservoir releases accurately.