Thailand warns eight provinces of possible flooding from high tides

BANGKOK — 1 November 2026, The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has warned eight provinces to prepare for possible flooding as high tides are expected to raise water levels along major rivers and coastal areas from 31 October to 4 November.

In its nationwide water situation report as of 07:00 on 1 November 2026, the ONWR said a high-pressure system from China was covering upper Thailand and the South China Sea, bringing easterly winds and stronger waves that could push seawater levels higher.

The rising sea levels could affect the mouths of the Bang Pakong, Chao Phraya, Tha Chin and Mae Klong rivers, potentially causing water to overflow into riverside communities.

Areas particularly at risk include communities outside flood embankments, locations without permanent flood barriers, and roads along Sukhumvit, Suksawat and Rama II.

The eight provinces placed under close monitoring are Chachoengsao, Samut Prakan, Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon, Nakhon Pathom and Samut Songkhram.

The ONWR also reported that rainfall had been recorded across the country, with the highest amounts in Trat (108mm), Samut Sakhon (96mm), Mae Hong Son (68mm), Phatthalung (62mm), Loei (36mm) and Prachuap Khiri Khan (26mm) in their respective regions.

Thailand is expected to experience unsettled weather from 2 to 6 November, with thunderstorms, strong gusts and isolated heavy rainfall.

The country’s major reservoirs held a combined 66.493 billion cubic metres of water, equivalent to 82% of their total capacity. Available water stood at 42.367 billion cubic metres, or 75% of capacity.

By region, reservoirs in the West held 97% of capacity, followed by the East at 89%, the North at 76%, the Central region at 73%, the South at 70% and the Northeast at 69%.

In the South, Ratchaprapha Dam held 4.273 billion cubic metres, or 76% of capacity, while Bang Lang Dam held 770 million cubic metres, or 53%.

Authorities have urged relevant agencies and residents in the eight provinces to closely monitor water levels and prepare for possible tidal flooding.