"The next few days will be crucial. Relevant authorities should manage water flow efficiently," said His Majesty during his audience with Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, members of the Cabinet, senior officials, and various public sector representatives.

The King said flooding would not have hit Bangkok this year if water management practices had been implemented more efficiently at an earlier date.

"Bangkok has the necessary tools to prevent floods," said His Majesty. He explained that if water gates had been opened and closed at the right time, floodwaters would not have reached the capital.

His Majesty said it was not too late to try and prevent floods from damaging the capital.

In response to the Royal Irrigation Department's report that the wet season would stop at the end of the year, His Majesty said there was still one month to go before the New Year.

"If solutions are implemented now, flooding will not recur around New Year," said His Majesty. He said he would monitor the situation in person, so long as his back problems did not prevent him from doing so.