Disaster Zone Declared Across Bangkok After Heavy Rain Causes Severe Flooding

Authorities in Bangkok have declared all 50 districts of Thailand’s capital a disaster zone after three consecutive days of heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across the city.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said nearly 300mm (11.8 inches) of rain had fallen since Thursday afternoon, overwhelming roads and drainage canals.

The continuous rainfall has submerged major roads and flooded numerous homes and shops, while several vehicles were abandoned after drivers became unable to navigate the rising floodwaters.

The eastern part of Bangkok has been particularly affected. Officials warned that more rain was expected on Saturday, although authorities said the flooding situation had later stabilised.

Governor Chadchart said it could take two to three days for the floodwaters to drain if no additional heavy rainfall occurs.

«“The rain keeps falling and we are doing our best. We are trying to pump the water out, but the water in canals are full,” Chadchart said.»

He urged residents living near canals to remain cautious and advised vehicle owners to move their cars to higher ground. Bangkok’s public transport authority also offered free access to MRT “park and ride” facilities where residents could temporarily leave their vehicles until October 2.

Al Jazeera reported that Bangkok is accustomed to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, but the current situation is unusual because the rain has continued for several days across much of the city.

Somkid Pheuk-ngam, a 67-year-old vendor living near a canal, said she had been forced to close her shop for two days as floodwater reached waist level.

She described the situation as worse than the devastating 2011 Thailand floods, which killed more than 500 people and damaged millions of homes.

Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has warned of continued risks from flash floods, forest runoff, mudslides and river overflow in eastern, northeastern and central parts of the country through Sunday.

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