BANGKOK (NNT) – Thailand is now in transition from the the rainy season to winter, with precipitation decreasing. The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) is asking the general public to help save water to prepare for the dry season, while ensuring the volume of water in reserve is sufficient for consumption and environment protection.
The Meteorological Department has announced the official start of the winter season in Thailand tomorrow (17th October 2019), when the temperature in upper parts of Thailand will drop and precipitation will continue to decrease, however the southern region will continue to have heavy rains.
The total volume of water in medium-sized and large dams across the country is currently 50.999 billion cubic meters, or 67 percent of total capacity, with 27.07 million usable. The volume in the four main dams in the Chao Phraya River Basin, namely Bhumibol, Sirikit, Kwae Noi, Bamrung Dan and Pa Sak Jolasid, is now 12.097 billion cubic meters combined, or 49 percent capacity, with 5.401 billion cubic meters usable.
The RID Deputy Director General Thaweesak Thana-dachophol said the department will manage water appropriate to limited resources, and maximize the water reserve for consumption in the dry season and environment protection. He has asked all sectors to use water in only the most efficient manner, while the RID will be preparing equipment such as water pumps and tankers for drought mitigation.
