Despite the fact that it is now the rainy season in Thailand, no rain is forecast for most of July, returning in August. The Royal Irrigation Department has instructed its officials to adjust their water management plans to ensure optimum use of water and to maintain as much as possible in the reservoirs.

According to Thaweesak Thanadachopol, deputy director-general of the Royal Irrigation Department, the total volume of water in Thailand’s four main reservoirs, namely behind the Bhumibol, Pasak Jolasid, Sirikit and Kwae Noi Bumrung Dan dams, is at 45% of full capacity, or 11.301 billion cubic metres, with only 15% at Pasak Jolasid.

Reservoirs, both large and medium-sized, across the country now hold a combined total of 39.869 billion cubic metres of water or an average of 52% of their capacities.

The Meteorological Department forecasts that, until Sunday, the south-western monsoon will weaken and this will lead to less rain in northern Thailand, with isolated heavy rainfall in southern provinces.

Although the water in Pasak Jolasid reservoir will be enough for consumption and protection of the ecological system, there won’t be enough for agriculture and farmers have been told to rely on rain for rice cultivation.

Sermchai Khiewsirithavorn, director of Regional Irrigation Office 10, said he is, however, optimistic that there will be enough rain by November to fill Pasak Jolasid reservoir, which will be sufficient until the next dry season, citing forecasts from the Meteorological Department.