Suriya has ordered the Royal Irrigation Department to prepare for heavy to very heavy rain in southern Thailand from 24 to 26 October, emphasizing monitoring of recurrent flood areas and accelerating repairs of Canal R.1 in Songkhla Province, expected to be completed by November.
On 21 October 2026, Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, said he instructed the Royal Irrigation Department to prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall in southern Thailand from 24 to 26 October, focusing on the three southern border provinces and recurrent flood areas such as Phetchaburi and Nakhon Si Thammarat. He urged close monitoring of water situations, readiness of water pumps and propellers, and inspection of reservoir conditions to enhance water discharge efficiency and minimize impacts on residents.
Regarding the progress of repairs on Phuminatdamri Canal (Canal R.1) in Songkhla, an important drainage canal, the Royal Irrigation Department reported that work is nearing completion and is expected to finish by November. The canal can handle water discharge up to 1,200 cubic meters per second. The minister plans to personally inspect the progress soon.
Concerning rainfall in Mueang District, Songkhla Province, on the night of 20 October, which caused minor flash floods in some areas, the Royal Irrigation Department reported the situation remains manageable. They have instructed affiliated agencies to monitor closely, issue warnings, and be ready to assist the public immediately in emergencies.
Mr. Witthaya Kaewmee, Director-General of the Royal Irrigation Department, stated he has instructed southern irrigation offices and projects to inspect flood risk points according to the 2026 flood response plan. They are preparing machinery, water pumps, propellers, and staff for operations, while continuously monitoring weather, rainfall, and water levels to adjust water discharge plans accordingly.
For local preparedness, Irrigation Office 15 has installed and readied water pumps at flood-risk points in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, especially in Thung Thalad field, Mueang District, and Pak Phanang District. They are also removing water hyacinth and obstructions in Tha Sala, Cha-uat, and Chian Yai Districts to improve water flow and reduce flooding issues.
Irrigation Office 16, responsible for Songkhla Province, is monitoring water situations and preparing for floods, including inspecting and testing water gate winches. They have also discussed repair plans for Canal R.1 to ensure the drainage system is ready for upcoming heavy rains.
Meanwhile, Irrigation Office 17 has prepared water pumps in Pattani Province, focusing on Nong Chik Hospital, Khok Pho Hospital, and Yaring Hospital to reduce flood risks to these facilities and surrounding communities. They are also removing water hyacinth and blockages in Tak Bai District, Narathiwat Province, including Ban Kualota, Ban Chumbok, Ban Santisuk, and Ban Ko Sathon, as well as canals and drainage systems in Pattani.
The Royal Irrigation Department has instructed all local units to be ready to assist the public immediately in emergencies and to intensify public information and warnings in flood-risk areas. Affected residents or those needing water-related help can contact the Royal Irrigation Department’s 24-hour hotline at 1460 for coordination with relevant agencies.