Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thongsri urged the public to be confident that no massive flooding will occur. He confirmed the government is prepared to respond and viewed the information from a popular page as possibly fake news causing more panic because it lacks the proper tools to provide accurate data.
At 09:25 on 23 September 2026 GMT+7. Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thongsri , spoke at the Government House regarding a page issuing disaster warnings claiming massive flooding would occur during this period, saying the page is about news, but personally, he believes the page owner does not have the tools to provide accurate information. We have the Meteorological Department, which issues disaster warnings and provides water-related information. It is true that there is an assessment for the period from 24-26 September forecasting heavy rain in the North, Central, and Northeast regions, but not to the extent reported. He confirmed that all relevant agencies are prepared and have taken preventive measures. He considers the situation not worrisome based on the information provided.
When asked if the rainfall amounts and catchment areas can still handle the water, Somsak said that we can still manage with protective measures to prevent concerns. Today, there are many news stories, not just about water but also about El Niño, as preparations for future droughts. We are preparing for both simultaneously. Yesterday (22 September), he met with the National Water Resources Committee (NWRC), where this issue was also discussed regarding the news being presented. He sees it as a form of pressure on the government, which already has prevention measures in place.
Deputy Prime Minister Somsak further stated that sometimes news on social media must be considered and filtered carefully. It cannot be banned, and it is unknown who the news presenters are. But water-related matters already have preparedness measures. At yesterday’s Cabinet meeting, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society proposed installing various monitoring tools to cover all areas, providing data for analysis to improve accuracy and give the public time for warnings and preparation for evacuation. This also helps government agencies prepare equipment and personnel to assist the public.
“Therefore, be confident that the news might be fake news causing more panic. However, it is acknowledged that there is data showing rain in some areas, but not to such an extent. The government can handle it.”
Regarding water storage capacity, Somsak said the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) has clarified numbers for each reservoir showing additional capacity. As he has been assigned by the Prime Minister to oversee this, he will focus on creating additional water catchment areas, such as retention basins. For Bangkok residents worried about water volume flowing through the Chao Phraya River, it remains within manageable limits to avoid impacting the public.
When asked about the government’s approval of a 15.5 billion baht budget for disaster insurance, Somsak revealed it will cover flood, storm, and earthquake risks under an insurance framework effective 1 October 2026. This amount allows faster compensation, aiming to provide relief within 45 days. He also noted understanding that public tax money must be used prudently.