The government has ordered an upgrade to proactive flood monitoring, designating the Ministry of Interior as the primary agency to work with all sectors, accelerating comprehensive assistance to the public while prioritizing the protection of lives and property.
On 26 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Ploytale Laksamee Sangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that due to continuous heavy rainfall and areas facing flooding, overflow, and flash floods affecting daily life and travel, the government has integrated all agencies to closely monitor the situation 24 hours a day, following directives from Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, emphasizing full support and care for the public.
Ms. Ploytale said the Ministry of Interior has instructed all provincial governors to implement three urgent measures to prevent widespread impacts on citizens’ lives and property and to ensure swift and effective management of the situation as follows:
1. "Elevate proactive flood monitoring and management" by closely tracking rainfall, water volume, water levels, and risk areas, especially lowlands, riverbanks, foothills, and previously flood-affected locations. This includes forecasting the situation, preparing personnel, machinery, equipment, evacuation points, and shelters to provide timely assistance, with the highest priority on safeguarding lives and property.
2. Assign the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office as the main responsible agency, integrating efforts with district chiefs, government sectors, local administrative organizations, foundations, volunteers, rescue units, and related agencies to closely monitor the situation. They must update risk and affected area data, prepare contingency plans, alert systems, evacuation procedures, and assistance operations. They must also mobilize disaster machinery and staff ready to act. If the situation worsens, they should promptly advise the provincial governor to order immediate resource mobilization.
3. Designate the Provincial Public Relations Office as the key mechanism for communicating and raising public awareness by integrating information with the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office and related agencies. This ensures the public "receives factual information," knows how to act safely, and can prepare for possible situations. They stress that citizens should follow official updates and heed local agency advice for their safety.
"The government is not complacent about the ongoing heavy rain situation. It is coordinating efforts to expedite assistance to the public with equipment, pumps, and personnel. The Ministry of Interior network is assigned as the main body working with all sectors—including government, foundations, volunteers, rescue units, and related agencies—to alleviate citizens' hardships. People can report information and request help 24/7 via hotline 1784," Ms. Ploytale stated.