Mekong River Flood Warning Issued for 5 Provinces from Aug 10-14
The Ministry of Interior instructs the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to closely monitor rising Mekong River levels across five provinces, preparing pumps and machinery for 24-hour response.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Ministry of Interior orders 24-hour monitoring of the Mekong River from August 10-14, 2026.
- Five provinces at risk include Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Mukdahan, and Nakhon Phanom.
- DPPM swiftly deploys water pumps to drain municipal stormwater into the Mekong River.
On August 10, 2026, Mr. Jedsad Sethamongkol (Mr. Jedsad Thephaseth), Deputy Minister of Interior, revealed that he has instructed the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) and related agencies to closely monitor the water levels of the Mekong River around the clock. Water levels have shown a continuous upward trend, raising concerns over potential overflows in low-lying areas across five provinces along the Mekong River—namely Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Mukdahan, and Nakhon Phanom—between August 10 and 14.
Authorities have been directed to ready water pumps, disaster relief machinery, and personnel for immediate deployment if the situation escalates. The ministry emphasized a proactive approach to disaster management, focusing on preparedness and early warning systems rather than reactive relief efforts.
"We are not waiting for floods to happen before providing help, but rather focusing on monitoring, early warning, and preparation beforehand. If the situation tends to worsen, the alert system must operate rapidly so that citizens have time to brace themselves and minimize damages."
Mr. Jedsad Thephaseth
In terms of on-the-ground operations, the DDPM initiated missions to install water pumps and drain water from drainage pipes into the Mekong River starting from 6:30 PM. This aims to enhance drainage efficiency and create retention capacity in case of heavy rainfall overnight. Machinery and personnel remain on standby 24 hours a day.
Managing water levels in the Mekong River basin presents a significant challenge because volumes depend not only on local rainfall but also on upstream water flows and dam management in neighboring countries. Preemptively draining municipal stormwater helps mitigate urban flood risks during critical overflow periods.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
The Ministry of Interior continues to prioritize proactive prevention and rapid public alert mechanisms, ensuring seamless integration across all agencies from monitoring and assessment to rescue and recovery operations, with the ultimate goal of keeping citizens safe and minimizing impacts.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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