ONWR Announces Flood and Landslide Risk Areas in 4 Regions, Sets Up Frontline Water Management Center in Nong Khai

Strategic Insights -

As heavy to very heavy rain is forecasted in some areas from July 1-5, 2025, the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) has identified numerous risk areas across four regions, with a special focus on the Mekong River's continued rise. Dr. Surasee Kittimondol, Secretary-General of ONWR, has revealed that preparations are being made to establish a frontline water management center in Nong Khai Province to handle the situation. The risk areas are divided into four regions: Northern, Northeastern, Eastern, and Southern.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ONWR has identified risk areas in four regions, including Chiang Rai, Tak, Nan, Phayao, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Yasothon, Roi Et, Surin, Sisaket, Ubon Ratchathani, Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong, Phang Nga, and 13 other provinces.
  • Heavy to very heavy rain is forecasted in some areas from July 1-5, 2025.
  • Medium and small reservoirs with water exceeding 80% of their capacity are located in 20 provinces, including Chiang Mai, Lampang, Nan, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Sakon Nakhon, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Kalasin, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin, Sisaket, Ubon Ratchathani, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chon Buri, Trat, Surat Thani, and Krabi.
  • The ONWR has requested local agencies to implement 5 measures to cope with the situation, including monitoring rainfall, checking embankments, preparing personnel and machinery, and public relations to warn people of potential flooding.
  • The Mekong River level continues to rise due to accumulated rain in the Lao PDR, affecting provinces such as Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani.

Statistics:

  • 26 risk areas have been identified across four regions in Thailand.
  • 20 provinces have reservoirs with water exceeding 80% of their capacity.
  • 5 measures have been requested by the ONWR for local agencies to cope with the situation.
  • Heavy to very heavy rain is forecasted in some areas from July 1-5, 2025.

Sources:

  • Thai News Agency, "ONWR announces flood and landslide risk areas in 4 regions, keeps an eye on the Mekong River continuing to rise, and sets up a 'frontline water management center' in Nong Khai." (01 Jul 2025)