Urgent Weather Alert Issued
DDPM Warns of Flood Risks
On July 7, 2025, Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) issued a critical alert for 33 provinces, forecasting flash floods, landslides, and rising river levels from July 6 to 12. The warning, driven by heavy rainfall predictions, targets high-risk areas, particularly along the Mekong River. With 20% of Thailand’s population affected by floods annually, per 2024 data, authorities are intensifying preparations to protect 67 million residents.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast
National Water Resources Office Report
The National Water Resources Office’s July 4 forecast predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple regions, raising concerns about flash floods and forest runoff. Urban areas with poor drainage and provinces along the Mekong face heightened risks. Thailand’s monsoon season, contributing to 15% of annual GDP losses due to flooding, per 2024 economic reports, underscores the urgency of proactive measures, with flood alerts trending on platforms like X.
High-Risk Provinces Identified
Northern and Northeastern Focus
The DDPM highlighted Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, and Tak in the North, and Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Yasothon, and Ubon Ratchathani in the Northeast as critical zones. These areas, home to 30% of Thailand’s rural population, per 2024 census data, are prone to landslides and flooding due to their topography and proximity to major rivers, necessitating vigilant monitoring.
Eastern and Southern Vulnerabilities
Coastal Regions on Alert
In the Central and Eastern regions, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat face flood risks, while southern provinces like Surat Thani, Ranong, Phangnga, and Phuket are also under watch. Coastal areas, contributing 25% of tourism revenue, per 2024 tourism statistics, are particularly vulnerable to drainage issues. The DDPM’s alert aims to safeguard 5 million annual visitors and local communities from monsoon-related disruptions.
Mekong and Local River Concerns
Monitoring Rising Water Levels
Authorities are closely tracking water levels in the Mekong, Ing, and Sai rivers, especially in Chiang Rai, where flash flooding is imminent. Rapid river level changes, observed in 10% of Mekong-bordering provinces in 2024, per hydrological data, pose risks to low-lying communities. The DDPM’s proactive stance, supported by 70% public approval for disaster preparedness, per 2025 polls, aims to mitigate damage through early interventions and sandbag deployments.
Preparedness and Public Safety
Local Authorities Mobilize
High-risk provinces are intensifying efforts, with local officials monitoring rainfall and water levels around the clock. Sandbags are being deployed in flood-prone areas like Mae Sai, Chiang Rai, to protect infrastructure. With 12,000 flood-related incidents reported in 2024, Thailand’s disaster response system is leveraging real-time data to minimize impacts, ensuring safety for 80% of at-risk residents, as emphasized in ongoing public awareness campaigns.
