Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that he has instructed the Royal Irrigation Department to closely monitor water conditions and weather, planning proactive water management to address risks from the expected El Niño phenomenon, which may cause below-normal rainfall in Thailand toward the end of 2026. The focus is on storing water for consumption, ecosystem preservation, agriculture, and industry, while simultaneously preparing to handle floods during the rainy season.
Weather data monitoring indicates that Thailand is likely to experience a weak El Niño condition continuing into early 2027, with potential development into a strong El Niño by late 2026. This may result in rainfall near or below normal levels. Consequently, the Royal Irrigation Department has been directed to continuously monitor rainfall, water flow, and available water resources, integrating data with relevant agencies to forecast trends and adjust water management plans in line with changing conditions.
As of 30 June 2026, the Royal Irrigation Department's Smart Water Operation Center (SWOC) reported that large and medium-sized reservoirs nationwide hold a combined volume exceeding 42 billion cubic meters, or 55% of total capacity, with an additional capacity of over 34.6 billion cubic meters still available. Meanwhile, the four main dams in the Chao Phraya basin — Bhumibol, Sirikit, Kwae Noi Bamrung Dan, and Pasak Chonlasit dams — collectively contain about 12.663 billion cubic meters, or 51% of total capacity, which remains manageable. It is projected that water availability at the start of the 2026/2027 dry season will sufficiently support all water users.
The minister emphasized strict implementation of the 2026 rainy season water management measures based on the principle of 'store early, retain mid-season, and release late' to enhance overall water management efficiency. He also urged reviewing reservoir management plans to increase flexibility, aiming to maximize water storage during the rainy season for use as reserves during the upcoming dry season.
Additionally, preparations have been ordered for machinery, equipment, and personnel to assist residents in flood-prone areas nationwide. The Royal Irrigation Department has readied a total of 5,732 units, including 1,914 water pumps, 367 water pushing machines, 203 water trucks, and 3,248 other support machines. Inspections of irrigation structures, dikes, and drainage systems are conducted to ensure full operational efficiency, in line with the nine flood preparedness measures for 2026 strictly approved by the National Water Resources Committee (NWRC).
Suriya added that the Royal Irrigation Department will intensify efforts to raise awareness among farmers, water user groups, and local agencies about the water situation and weather trends to collaboratively plan appropriate water use. Campaigns promoting water conservation following the 3R principles — Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle — will be conducted, along with encouragement to grow water-efficient crops and adjust planting plans according to available water resources.
"I urge all agencies to closely monitor water and weather conditions and integrate their efforts across all sectors to ensure efficient national water management, minimize impacts from floods, droughts, and El Niño risks, and continuously secure water stability for people in all areas," Suriya concluded.
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