Bangkok: The Meteorological Department has reported that Thailand is experiencing below-normal rainfall in 2026, with the El Ni±o phenomenon expected to intensify and extend towards the end of the year. According to Thai News Agency, since the beginning of 2026, Thailand's cumulative rainfall is 11% below the normal levels. The El Ni±o phenomenon is predicted to persist until early 2027, with an 81% chance of becoming a very strong El Ni±o from October to December 2026. This is likely to result in drought and water shortages, particularly in northern areas, although heavy rainfall events could still occur due to monsoons and tropical cyclones.
Mr. Paitoon Kengkanchang, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Water Resources Office (NWRO), assured that Thailand has sufficient water reserves for the year, thanks to water storage efforts since the 2025 rainy season. The four main dams in the Chao Phraya River basin currently hold 17,245 million cubic meters of usable water, a significant increase from the levels during the 2015 El Ni±o event. However, the National Water Resources Management Committee (NWRC) continues to emphasize preparedness, especially for areas outside irrigation zones.
Despite below-normal rainfall, intermittent heavy rains have caused flooding due to obstructions in waterways. The NWRC has instructed agencies to inspect construction projects to ensure they do not hinder drainage and has called for timely implementation of measures for the 2026 rainy season. As of July 30, 2026, reservoir levels are manageable, with a total volume of 44,906 million cubic meters, or 56% of total capacity, and usable water volume at 20,784 million cubic meters, or 37%.
Short-term forecasts predict increased rainfall from July 30-31, particularly along the Andaman coast and the East, with concentrated rain in the North and upper Northeast from August 1-9. Some central, eastern, and southern regions, including Bangkok, may experience less rainfall. The NWRC continues to issue warnings for areas at risk of heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides, and is monitoring high tides in several rivers until August 1st, which could lead to overflow in low-lying and coastal areas.
The NWRC is committed to integrating its efforts with relevant agencies to manage water resources effectively in response to the changing weather conditions and to mitigate impacts on the public.