Safety
Mekong River Water Levels Rising: Alert Issued for Northern and Northeastern Thailand
The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has warned of potential flooding along the Mekong River from August 31 to September 6, 2026, due to heavy rainfall and increased discharge from the Xayaburi Dam.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has issued Announcement No. 2/2026, warning of rising water levels and potential overflow along the Mekong River. The alert covers the period from August 31 to September 6, 2026, specifically impacting eight provinces stretching from Chiang Saen District in Chiang Rai to Khong Chiam District in Ubon Ratchathani.
The ONWR attributes this trend to a monsoon trough moving across Northern and Northeastern Thailand, combined with a depression in Southern China and strong southwest monsoons. These weather patterns are expected to bring heavy rainfall to the upper regions of Laos and Thailand. Furthermore, the Xayaburi Dam is projected to discharge approximately 18,000 cubic meters of water per second as of August 31, contributing to a forecasted rise in water levels of up to 4.8 meters in areas including Nong Khai and Bueng Kan.
For residents and travelers in these regions, this situation may lead to localized flooding and disruptions to river-based activities. While the ONWR has provided a five-day forecast, the exact extent of the overflow remains subject to ongoing weather developments. Those in the affected provinces are advised to monitor local official updates closely, as the situation is currently developing and the full impact on riverbank communities is yet to be confirmed.