Chanthaburi's irrigation office denies rumours that it opened all reservoir gates at 100% and caused the flood. It says 24-27 September rain (332.4 mm in Kaeng Hang Maeo) pushed 210.91 million cubic metres into seven reservoirs, forcing overflow. Officials plan to hold back water for a possible Super El Niño drought next year, and to build bypass channels and retention ponds. For durian orchard and shop owners in Chanthaburi, expect water-release decisions to be cautious, and plan for both flood and drought risk.