The Prime Minister revealed that the water situation in Isan is under control, but the metropolitan area remains severe, with efforts to drain as much water as possible. This afternoon, he will visit Prachinburi province. He expressed concern about heavy rains expected in the South next week and showed images of Anutin and Bhumjaithai leaders appearing at Newin's private birthday celebration.
4 Oct 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior He gave an interview after a conference meeting at the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command (NDPMC) from the Phanom Rung meeting room, 4th floor, Buriram Provincial Hall, regarding the current flood situation. He said that the provinces along Thailand’s major river basins in the Isan region are currently under control. The most severe area now is the metropolitan region, where water must be drained as quickly as possible. This afternoon, he will travel to Prachinburi province, where flooding and standing water remain. Currently, the runoff water is less than the stagnant water in the area. After several days, the stagnant water has started to smell bad. They need to urgently find ways to drain the water from the area as fast as possible.
When asked about measures to assist people regarding the National Insurance Policy, the Prime Minister said that efforts are underway. From today onwards, the 30 million households in risk areas are insured. The government will coordinate so that when disasters occur, assistance and relief will be provided promptly. Citizens need not do anything themselves. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and provincial authorities will expedite surveys and coordinate with insurance companies to deliver aid quickly to the people.
The Prime Minister added that he holds daily meetings. The government is concerned and attentive to the situation, working continuously to resolve it. They are also preparing for ongoing heavy rainfall, especially next week, when it is expected to be intense across all southern provinces, from Prachuap Khiri Khan to Narathiwat. He has ordered provincial governors, the 4th Army Region, and all government agencies to prepare emergency response plans and readiness measures, including setting up evacuation centers. These centers must meet standards to ensure that evacuees feel as comfortable as possible.
A reporter added that today (4 October) is the 68th birthday of Newin Chidchob, chairman of Buriram United Football Club. Normally, a grand birthday celebration is held annually at Chang Arena in Buriram province.
Previously, the Bhumjaithai Party announced the cancellation of media attendance at Newin’s birthday event, originally scheduled from 3-4 October. Reports say this year's birthday party will be held privately due to ongoing flood situations in several provinces.
Meanwhile, Newin posted a message onFacebook page 'Lung Newin'on 2 October, inviting everyone to make merit together regardless of location, saying: “Our hearts are connected. May the merit we create together return to all with good health, free from illness and disasters, giving strength to work, care for family, community, society, and country.” He encouraged donations to Buriram Hospital and stated that he would not receive flowers or any gifts.
