Thread: Low rainfall threatens crops in Nakhon Ratchasima & Nakhon Sawan

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, 11 September 2015 – Several regions in Thailand continue to suffer drought, with water levels reaching critical lows at Lam Takhong Dam in Nakhon Ratchasima province.

Water levels at Lam Takhong Dam have fallen to 15% capacity. Suttiroj Kongkaew, Director of the Lam Takhong Operation and Maintenance Project, ordered constant monitoring of the dam’s water levels, after less-than-expected rainfall in nearby Khao Yai National Park.

He also told officials charged with the local water supply to store rainwater for tap water production. Meteorologists have forecast a rainstorm in October, just north of the dam. However, if low rainfall persists, the region will likely suffer a dire drought situation next year.

Irrigation officials have also reported lower levels in the Chao Phraya River. They urged farmers that have finished harvesting to suspend operations for the rest of the year. For those who are still in the process of cultivating crops, officials have asked that farmers irrigate with rainwater and maintain water reserves to last until harvesting. Farmers without access to natural water resources were told that any cultivation runs a high risk of crop failure.

Meanwhile in Nakhon Sawan province, the recent lack of precipitation has forced farmers to pump water from nearby canals to irrigate their rice paddies, which were sown during a period of constant rain. Provincial irrigation officials have also asked that farmers cease further crop cultivation for the rest of the year.

However, Nan province has received constant rainfall, causing slippery roads and car accidents in several areas. Local authorities have urged caution when driving, especially for tourists unfamiliar with local roads.

National News Bureau Of Thailand | Low rainfall threatens crops in Nakhon Ratchasima & Nakhon Sawan

Water shortage in Nakhon Ratchasima reaches crisis level

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, 22 September 2015 (NNT) - The water situation in Nakhon Ratchasima is still critical after all five main dams had less than 50% of water of their capacities. The provincial governor has instructed all areas in the province to urgently tackle the current water shortage.

Provincial Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Thongchai Lue-adun on Tuesday observed the water situation in Kham Sakae Saeng district. He instructed officers to pump water from the Nong Taluk Phuang lake to the Nong Kha Khin lake since there was not enough water in the second lake for tap water production. Mr. Thongchai said the province was urgently pumping water from various natural water sources into water catchment areas for consumption during the dry season next year.

In Chaiyaphum province, Provincial Governor Wichian Chantharanothai and officers on Monday inspected the Achan Chue dyke at the Chiang Tha and Rawe rivers in Nong Bua Rawe. The dyke collapsed on 20 September 2015, making the water level in the Chi river increase and slightly submerging some agricultural areas. The governor confirmed the Chi river was able to receive more water.


National News Bureau Of Thailand | Water shortage in Nakhon Ratchasima reaches crisis level

The blame clearly lies with the Thai government due to their banning of this years 'Rocket Festivals' which would have guaranteed rain.