Bangkok:Professor Seree Suparatit has identified flaws in the flood warning system, emphasizing that local authorities are failing to provide timely alerts to the public. He advocates for the urgent development of an L-Alert system to enhance local risk assessment and public notification.
According to Thai News Agency, Associate Professor Dr. Seree Suparatit, Vice President of the National Disaster Warning Council Foundation and Director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University, explained that while the central government provides risk information, local authorities struggle to issue timely warnings that reach affected communities. The recent flooding in Bangkok showcased these gaps, with many residents unprepared due to delayed local warnings.
Dr. Seree noted that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has the technology and budget for forecasting systems but has not effectively communicated warnings to residents. He also pointed out the BMA's absence from national meetings to discuss flood monitoring, which hinders the integration of central and local data.
To address these issues, Dr. Seree proposes the L-Alert system, which would empower local authorities to use central data for detailed risk assessment, allowing them to inform residents about high-risk and safe areas, evacuation points, and routes. He stressed that this initiative would strengthen local authorities rather than shift responsibility from the central government, which should support local efforts by providing necessary resources and training.
He also highlighted the importance of public education, enabling individuals to prepare and protect their families and property in the early stages of a disaster. This self-reliance would complement community and government assistance, reducing potential losses.
Concerning the upstream water situation, Dr. Seree reported adjustments at the Chao Phraya Dam, which increased discharge rates, affecting downstream regions. Although inner Bangkok is not immediately at risk, areas in Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, and Ayutthaya provinces remain vulnerable, necessitating ongoing monitoring.
Dr. Seree also provided updates on weather forecasts, noting that while rain is expected from October 5-8, it is not anticipated to be a large-scale event. However, he cautioned that long-term forecasts, such as potential low-pressure systems from October 13-15, remain uncertain and require vigilance.
He concluded by stressing the need for infrastructure improvements, water retention strategies, and enhanced public preparedness to mitigate the impacts of concurrent heavy rainfall, upstream flooding, and high tides.