DDPM offices in 49 provinces on full alert for heavy downpours

Villagers in the North, Northeast, Central Plains and South have been suggested to brace for heavy rains and high tides as a tropical depression will move across the country from Monday through Thursday.

Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) Director General Chayaphol Thitisak is coordinating with its offices in 49 provinces throughout the country to be on full alert for heavy downpours, strong winds and high tides.

Provincial officials have been instructed to closely monitor rain volumes and warn villagers in risk areas of possible natural disasters.

On Saturday, the Meteorological Department forecast isolated heavy downpours in northern and northeastern provinces on Monday and Tuesday, as the tropical depression over the South China Sea is moving inland.

The storm is slowly moving northeasterly and expected to prevail over the upper Vietnam on Monday and Tuesday. The villagers in flood-prone areas of the North and Northeast have been advised to be alert for run-off, overflowing rivers and landslides.

Meanwhile, a strong southwest monsoon is prevailing over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Strong winds and high waves of 2-4 meters are expected in the Andaman. All ships should proceed with caution, while small boats should remain ashore, the Meteorological Department said.

Those living in western coastal areas of the South as well as in the eastern provinces were advised to beware of strong winds during this period.

As many as 107 reservoirs nationwide are approaching the maximum holding capacity as technicians race against time to drain them before more rainstorms gather.

NNT

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