The Deputy Minister of Interior has ordered close monitoring of Mekong River water levels in five northeastern provinces due to the risk of overflow from 10-14 August. He instructed readiness for 24-hour assistance.
On 10 August 2026, Mr. Jetsad Thaiset, Deputy Minister of Interior, revealed that he has instructed the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) and related agencies to monitor the Mekong River water levels closely around the clock, especially in the provinces of Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Mukdahan, and Nakhon Phanom. These areas show a continuous upward trend, with potential overflow in low-lying areas expected between 10-14 August 2026. He also ordered the preparation of water pumps, disaster machinery, and personnel to be ready for immediate deployment.
Mr. Jetsad stated that the key to disaster management is early warning to inform residents in advance, giving them time to prepare, move belongings, and plan their lives promptly. The DDPM will continuously assess the situation and issue alerts through various channels, including the Cell Broadcast system, which sends warnings directly to mobile phones of residents in risk areas, alongside community leaders and government media.
"We do not wait for flooding to occur before providing assistance. Instead, we monitor, warn, and prepare ahead of time. If the situation worsens, the warning system must operate as quickly as possible to give people time to respond and minimize damage," said the Deputy Minister of Interior.
Furthermore, Mr. Jetsad clarified public confusion, stating that the rising Mekong water levels are a different issue from drought conditions in some areas. The high Mekong water level indicates flood risk from overflow, while drought management in other areas must be handled according to local conditions. He urged the public to rely on official government information.
Regarding local preparedness, the DDPM has installed water pumps and started pumping water from drainage pipes into the Mekong River since 18:30 to enhance drainage efficiency ahead of heavy rains. They have also prepared personnel and machinery to operate 24 hours a day, with the primary goal of ensuring public safety and minimizing impact.