Disaster zone declared across Bangkok as heavy rain triggers flooding | Weather News
Bangkok Declares Disaster Zone Amid Severe Flooding
Bangkok authorities have declared a disaster zone across all 50 districts of the Thai capital following three days of continuous rainfall that has led to severe flooding. The announcement was made on Saturday by Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who reported that nearly 300 millimeters (11.8 inches) of rain has fallen since Thursday afternoon.
The relentless downpour has submerged roads and canals, inundating many homes and businesses. Images from the city depict major thoroughfares underwater, with vehicles abandoned as drivers were unable to navigate the rising waters.
Governor Chadchart indicated that the eastern areas of the city were the hardest hit and warned residents of additional rainfall expected on Saturday. He expressed hope that flooding would recede once the rain stops, as city officials work to expedite the drainage of floodwaters.
“The rain keeps falling, and we are doing our best,” he stated on social media. “We are trying to pump the water out, but the canals are already full. Those living near canals are at the greatest risk, as every canal is currently filled.”
Later on Saturday, government officials reported that the flooding situation had “stabilized,” though they cautioned that it could take two to three days for the water to drain completely, depending on the weather. “If no more rain falls in the area, the situation will improve,” the governor added.
In light of the flooding, Chadchart advised residents to relocate vehicles to higher ground. Bangkok’s public transport authority is offering free access to its MRT “park and ride” facilities until October 2 for those seeking a safe place to park their cars.
Local reports indicate that this level of persistent rainfall is causing concern among residents. Al Jazeera correspondent Tony Cheng noted that while Bangkok typically experiences heavy rain during monsoon season, the ongoing rainfall has raised alarm.
“What usually occurs is brief, intense downpours that lead to localized flooding, which tends to recede quickly,” Cheng explained. “However, this situation is unique, with ongoing heavy rain affecting the entire city.”
Somkid Pheuk-ngam, a 67-year-old vendor living near a canal in northern Bangkok, shared her experience of the flooding. “The water keeps coming in. It’s difficult to leave my home; the water is at my waist level,” she said. Somkid was forced to close her shop for two days due to the inundation, describing the situation as “worse than the 2011 flood,” which resulted in over 500 fatalities and extensive damage across the country.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has also issued warnings of low pressure across eastern, northeastern, and central Thailand until Sunday, cautioning residents about the risks of flash floods, mudslides, and river overflows.
