Thai PBS Verify has investigated a video clip posted by the Facebook page “ที่นี่ชลบุรี” (Here Chonburi), which shows seawater surging and flooding parts of Chonburi municipality. The clip has drawn significant attention, with 8,500 reactions and 606 shares.
Source: Facebook “ที่นี่ชลบุรี”
Many viewers expressed concerns over whether this phenomenon will become more frequent or severe in the future.
Verification Process
Thai PBS Verify used Google Lens to examine the images in the video. It confirmed that the flooding occurred in areas such as in front of the Mueang Chonburi District Office, Sala Ruam Jai Chon Road, and Tamnak Nam Road—all located in commercial and residential districts of Chonburi. (record link)
Additionally, a review of historical records found that seawater surges have been reported every year around November, particularly after the Loy Krathong festival.
Royal Irrigation Department Confirms Normality
Dr. Thanet Somboon, Director of the Bureau of Water Management and Hydrology at the Royal Irrigation Department, stated that this seawater surge is a regular occurrence. It typically happens between November 18-20 each year and lasts only 2-3 hours in the morning before receding.
For the most recent incident, which began on November 18, 2024, water levels rose for about 2-3 hours before naturally subsiding. Dr. Thanet reassured the public that there is no cause for concern.
Experts Urge Long-Term Planning
Dr. Suchatvee Suwansawat (Dr. A), former president of King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “The seawater surge in Chonburi is a fact, not just speculation. If we don’t start planning flood prevention, Bangkok, Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan, Chonburi, and other coastal lowlands will continue to sink. Other countries have already implemented solutions. We must start before it’s too late.” (record link)
Original source: https://www.thaipbs.or.th/now/content/1919
