Chaiyachonok revealed that the Meteorological Department has updated its communication to provide current information, stressing that from now on it must boldly communicate with the public. He stated that the claim about proposing a 497 million baht budget to develop a forecasting system in collaboration with Tomorrow.io is false.
At 10:05 a.m. on 29 September 2026 GMT+7 Chaiyachonok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society said at Government House regarding progress after the Prime Minister instructed the Meteorological Department to change its communication to be easier for the public to understand: "We have been working on this for some time. Initially, the Meteorological Department changed its posting approach, which has received better feedback, but we want it to improve further."
When asked about criticism that the Meteorological Department provides information late and how this issue will be addressed, Chaiyachonok said it is necessary to investigate the reasons behind the delays. Normally, they report as quickly as possible—even if the information is not 100% complete but is highly reliable—to avoid causing public concern. Preliminary meetings have taken place. Forecast information, which can change, is usually available two weeks in advance, but discrepancies can occur by the current date. Therefore, people tend to wait for data one week or three days prior for more certainty.
He explained further that going forward, communication must be proactive, clearly stating the current data status and potential developments, so the public can choose how to prepare in advance. The department will also simplify communication about water volumes. However, recommendations on how to act fall under the responsibilities of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) and related agencies.
Regarding how the Meteorological Department will build trust, as currently some people trust certain pages more, Chaiyachonok said this is something the department must prove itself on, but he affirmed that all pages’ shared data originate from the Meteorological Department. Moving forward, the department must communicate boldly with the public. It should also refine its communication approach to be more detailed. He emphasized upgrading personnel and technology, stating that whether or not a crisis occurs, he has consistently provided this policy.
Fake news about proposing a 497 million baht budget to Cabinet for a forecasting system with Tomorrow.io
When asked about rumors of pushing for cooperation between Tomorrow.io and the Meteorological Department to be considered by the Cabinet, with a budget request of 497 million baht to develop a NASA-equivalent weather forecasting system, Chaiyachonok revealed that this project is only a proof of concept (POC) and a study of benefits from low-earth orbit satellites with AI technology that analyzes and integrates data. This work began under the previous government and has shown real effectiveness.
Currently, it has not reached the stage of budget preparation or project implementation. It remains under further study. There is a policy to develop a genuine forecasting system using technology, but the exact form is not yet decided. He confirmed there is definitely a policy to enhance the Meteorological Department's capabilities. As for cooperation with Tomorrow.io, it has not been submitted to the Cabinet. The prior news circulated about this is fake and should be viewed skeptically. However, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society emphasizes the importance of using technology to develop the system.
