High tides threaten riverside areas in Bangkok and six central provinces
Thailand's disaster prevention agency has issued a high-tide alert for Bangkok and six central provinces, with riverside communities facing possible flooding from November 9–17.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has placed Bangkok and six central provinces on alert for high tides between November 9 and 17, 2026, which could raise water levels in the Chao Phraya River and nearby canals, potentially flooding low-lying communities.
The department has instructed authorities in Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram and Samut Prakan, as well as Bangkok, to monitor water levels closely and provide advance warnings to residents in vulnerable areas.
Particular attention is being given to riverside and canal communities outside flood embankments, low-lying areas and locations without permanent flood defences.
High tides could push water above critical levels
DDPM director-general Nirat Pongsitthaworn said on Saturday (November 7) that the Central Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command had assessed flood risks following a warning issued by the Royal Thai Navy's Hydrographic Department on November 5.
According to the Navy's announcement No. 15/2569, high tides are expected to affect the Chao Phraya River and surrounding areas over two overlapping periods.
Between November 9 and 16, from 7.30am to 1.30pm, water levels near Royal Thai Navy Headquarters and nearby areas are forecast to reach 1.70–2.00 metres above mean sea level.
These levels are close to the critical threshold of 2.00 metres and could allow water to enter through gaps in flood barriers, piers and drainage pipes.
Meanwhile, between November 9 and 17, from 6am to noon, water levels around Phra Chulachomklao Fort and nearby areas are expected to reach 1.80–1.90 metres above mean sea level.
This would exceed the area's critical threshold of 1.70 metres, increasing the risk of riverbanks overflowing and water entering low-lying communities along rivers and canals.
Seven areas placed under close monitoring
The DDPM identified the following districts and areas as particularly vulnerable to rising water levels:
- Pathum Thani: Mueang Pathum Thani and Sam Khok districts.
- Nonthaburi: Mueang Nonthaburi, Pak Kret and Bang Kruai districts.
- Nakhon Pathom: Bang Len, Nakhon Chai Si and Sam Phran districts.
- Samut Sakhon: All districts.
- Samut Songkhram: All districts.
- Samut Prakan: Mueang Samut Prakan, Phra Samut Chedi, Phra Pradaeng and Bang Bo districts.
- Bangkok: Riverside and canal-side communities, particularly low-lying neighbourhoods outside flood embankments and areas without permanent flood protection.
Authorities in these locations have been instructed to monitor tidal conditions, track rising river and canal levels, and prepare measures to minimise possible flooding.
Residents and riverside businesses advised to prepare
Nirat said the DDPM had coordinated with the six provincial administrations and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to strengthen monitoring and preparations throughout the high-tide period.
Local authorities have been asked to publicise the expected high-tide times in advance and ensure residents in vulnerable communities are informed of possible risks.
The department has also instructed relevant agencies to notify businesses operating along rivers and canals, including riverbank protection construction projects, floating restaurants and other riverside establishments, so they can take appropriate precautions.
Residents living near the Chao Phraya River, canals and low-lying areas have been advised to monitor official announcements, watch for rising water levels and take steps to prevent water from entering homes and business premises.
People should also exercise caution when travelling or carrying out activities near rivers and canals during periods of unusually high water.
The public can check updates on Chao Phraya River water levels through the Royal Thai Navy's Hydrographic Department website at https://hydro.navy.mi.th/5x3hdizpntnu.
Anyone affected by flooding or requiring assistance can contact the DDPM through its LINE account, @1784DDPM, or call the 1784 disaster prevention hotline, available 24 hours a day.
