Bangkok: The Prime Minister has urgently instructed all provincial governors to prepare for the 2026 drought, emphasizing systematic water management to alleviate the suffering of people in all areas. If a drought situation arises, immediate and coordinated assistance must be provided.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Arsit Sampanrat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, revealed that Thailand has officially entered the summer season of 2026, which will last until mid-May 2026, as announced by the Meteorological Department on February 19, 2026. This will result in higher temperatures across Thailand, expected to affect citizens' daily lives, particularly due to drought conditions likely impacting water availability.
The Permanent Secretary stated that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also Minister of Interior and Commander-in-Chief of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command, has established guidelines for preparing for and addressing the 2026 drought crisis. He has instructed all provincial governors to implement these guidelines, focusing on integrated cooperation from all sectors to ensure the livelihoods and agricultural areas of the people. These guidelines include closely monitoring the provincial water situation, establishing working groups to analyze weather data, and expediting the development of provincial drought emergency response plans. Local agencies are also instructed to be prepared with personnel and equipment for immediate use, and to inspect and repair water storage facilities to ensure they are in good working condition.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior added that, for areas assessed to be experiencing drought, command centers should be urgently established to assist affected people, prioritizing the shortage of water for consumption. The administrative sector must coordinate with the police and military to monitor and prevent conflicts arising from water scarcity and prevent crimes during the dry season, such as the theft of agricultural equipment.
"During this drought, in addition to urgently providing assistance with drinking water for daily use to the people, it is equally important to focus on public health. We request the deployment of mobile medical and public health units to provide advice, monitor, and prevent hot-weather outbreaks such as diarrhea, cholera, and food poisoning. Furthermore, we must campaign to raise public awareness of the value of water resources, encourage water conservation, and promote proper hygiene. All provinces are required to continuously report the situation and operations to the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command until the situation returns to normal. Together, we can alleviate suffering and promote well-being, ensuring the people can overcome this year's drought crisis safely and with minimal impact. Affected citizens can request assistance through the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation's emergency hotline at 1784, available 24 hours a day," the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of In terior concluded.