J Seth revealed that the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) issued cell broadcast warnings to monitor flooding in Chiang Rai, the Lao River, and Phayao following rising Mekong River levels. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister ordered four Deputy Prime Ministers to manage water situations nationwide, allocating 100 million baht each to handle floods and droughts.
On 11 Aug 2026 at Government House, J Seth Thaiseth, Deputy Minister of the Interior, reported on the flood situation in Chiang Rai and along the Lao River. The DDPM has been monitoring closely and coordinating with the National Disaster Warning Center, issuing updates today via cell broadcast in Chiang Rai, Lao River, and Phayao areas. In the Northeast, although the Mekong River has risen, all areas remain under surveillance.
Regarding current response plans, we have conducted multiple drills and instructed provincial governors and local agencies to remain vigilant. When emergency announcements occur, alerts will be sent via cell broadcast and other warning systems, while village public relations will disseminate information for community leaders to act and follow evacuation procedures in their areas.
When asked about specific areas needing special attention, J Seth said that at 11:20 a.m., the DDPM sent cell broadcast alerts for Chiang Rai, the Lao River, and Phayao, requesting cooperation from residents. Upon receiving such warnings, especially via cell broadcast, people should begin executing rehearsed plans and cooperate with local leaders who will assist in caring for bedridden patients and relocating vehicles.
When asked about any special instructions from the Prime Minister regarding floods, J Seth said that Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has assigned the four Deputy Prime Ministers to oversee flood and drought issues in their respective regions nationwide. They are to report back to the Cabinet, and in emergencies, each will receive 100 million baht to support affected areas and handle drought situations.
J Seth added that funds to support the public may face challenges related to dredging drainage channels, constructing temporary flood barriers, and preparing for drought conditions. Currently, heavy rainfall causes floods, but by late this year and early next, drought conditions are expected. The Prime Minister has instructed preparations to store this water to mitigate drought impacts in early next year.