Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding in Bangkok, Thailand, prompting authorities to declare a flood disaster across the city. Almost 300 millimeters of rain fell in 48 hours, causing canals to overflow and roads to be submerged. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt urged residents to stay home and avoid traveling unless necessary. The flooding has affected at least 13 roads, with residents wading through deep water in several neighborhoods.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration declared a disaster for all 50 districts, granting local organizations special powers to respond to the crisis. Governor Sittipunt stated that the situation had stabilized, but warned that it would take 2-3 days to drain the floodwater if no more rain falls. The city's pumping stations are operating at full capacity, pumping 1,200 cubic meters of water per second. Municipal workers are working to keep roads clear and prevent rubbish from blocking drains.
Residents are struggling to cope with the flooding, with many forced to close their shops and stay indoors. Somkid Pheuk-ngam, a 67-year-old vendor, said the flooding was worse than the 2011 flood, which killed over 500 people and damaged millions of homes. She expressed concern about the impact on her business and daily life. The flooding has also disrupted traffic, with many roads impassable due to high water levels.
The Thai government has responded to the crisis, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul cutting short a trip to London to return to Bangkok. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation warned of low pressure across eastern, northeastern, and central Thailand until Sunday. Authorities have set up temporary shelters for those displaced by the flooding, with around 980 people currently seeking refuge.
Scientists warn that extreme weather events like the Bangkok flooding will increase in intensity and frequency due to climate change. The city's drainage and sewage department reported that September rainfall was significantly higher than average, with 487 mm of rain recorded between September 1 and 25. The flooding has highlighted the need for improved flood management and infrastructure in Bangkok.
The flooding has also affected local businesses, with many forced to close due to the high water levels. In the On Nut neighborhood, residents were seen filling sandbags to protect their homes and businesses. The Bangkok Governor urged residents to move their belongings to higher ground and cooperate with authorities to mitigate the impact of the flooding.
The city is built on former marshland and rests only 1.5 meters above sea level, making it prone to flooding. The authorities are working to drain water out of the city through other channels, minimizing the amount that flows into Bangkok. With the rain expected to continue, residents are bracing for a long and challenging recovery process.
Key points
- Almost 300 millimeters of rain fell in 48 hours, causing widespread flooding in Bangkok.
- The flooding has affected at least 13 roads, with residents wading through deep water in several neighborhoods.
- Authorities have set up temporary shelters for those displaced by the flooding, with around 980 people currently seeking refuge.
