Water Levels Decrease in Nakhon Sawan as Ayutthaya Prepares for Rise

Nakhon Sawan:Water levels in Nakhon Sawan are beginning to recede, while Ayutthaya is preparing for a 10 cm rise, though Bangkok is not expected to be affected. According to Thai News Agency, the National Water Resources Management Committee reported a decrease in the flow of the Ping and Nan Rivers into the Chao Phraya River basin. Residents in Ayutthaya along the Chao Phraya and Noi Rivers have been warned of a 10 cm rise in water levels as it flows into neighboring provinces, yet areas like Bangkok are safeguarded by high flood barriers. Mr. Paitoon Kengkanchang, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Water Resources Office, noted a downward trend in water volume flowing into Nakhon Sawan and the Ping River, with a similar decrease in the Nan River. By 900 AM, Nakhon Sawan's water volume was 2,119 cubic meters, with a discharge rate of 2,500 cubic meters per second. The Sakae Krang River's high volume is expected to stabilize in a few days, improving water discharge consistency. In Ayutthaya, water fr om the Chao Phraya Dam may increase levels by 10 cm, affecting Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan. However, these areas are protected by high dikes, though low-lying regions outside the dikes may face some impact. The Vajiralongkorn Dam currently maintains a stable water level with balanced inflow and outflow. The Srinakarin Dam is at 95.55% capacity but can still take in more water, while the Mae Klong Dam holds over 1,100 million cubic meters, causing river overflow and flooding in Ratchaburi and Samut Songkhram. Water drainage is slow due to tidal influences. Heavy rain is predicted in Phetchaburi, possibly increasing releases from the Kaeng Krachan Dam, though local authorities are ready to manage the situation. In the east, Chachoengsao and Ongkharak Districts are addressing water drainage issues with assistance from the Rangsit South irrigation project and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Overall, while increased rainfall is expected from October 5-8, water levels in key dams are not anticipated to rise significantly, and the situation remains manageable.