PRESS RELEASE:
The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has reassured the public that despite the impending La NiƱa phenomenon, the country is unlikely to face flooding on the scale of the 2011 disaster. ONWR Secretary-General Surasee Kittimonthon noted that weather forecasts predict less frequent rain this year, reducing the risk of severe floods in the Central Plains and the North.
To prepare for the rainy season’s peak, the National Water Resources Committee (NWRC) has implemented measures approved by the cabinet on June 4 to enhance water management and retention capacities. Additionally, on June 7, the NWRC approved projects to enhance water infrastructure, with construction to be completed within 120 days of funding allocation starting July 12.
Surasee stated that unlike 2011, when the season began with frequent and intense rainfall and was worsened by five major storms, this year started with below-average precipitation. However, rainfall is expected to increase later in the year with two forecasted storms.
The ONWR secretary-general affirmed that improved government response mechanisms and a new frontline water management center would enable swift action in case of flooding, preventing delays experienced over a decade ago.