According to the Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Centre, Mekong River levels are expected to rise sharply over the next two months, with Dong Thap Muoi and Long Xuyen Quadrangle experiencing rapid increases until late September, before slowing and receding.
The highest water levels at Tan Chau on the Tien River and Chau Doc on the Hau River are typically observed between late September and mid-October.
In the lower Mekong Delta, influenced by both tidal effects and upstream inflows, water levels at stations along the main Mekong River are expected to remain high. The highest tidal peaks at Can Tho and My Thuan stations may occur in October, reaching 0.25-0.4 metres above alert level 3.
Tidal peaks at coastal stations are forecast to rise steadily through the year, reaching their highest in late December at 0.25-0.4 metres above alert level 3.
The Southern Regional Hydro-Meteorological Centre assessed that this year’s water levels in the Mekong River system are higher than the multi-year average, thanks to abundant upstream inflows.
The Department of Water Resources Infrastructure warns that this year’s peak floods, combined with high tides, could endanger year-round flood-control dikes, especially in the central Mekong Delta.
Assessments indicate that approximately 220 year-round flood-control dikes, which protect over 56,300 hectares of farmland, are at risk. Although floods are low, rainfall through year-end is forecast to be above average, ensuring a water supply for the autumn-winter rice crop and fruit trees. Localities are advised to follow flood-release plans to clean the fields.