Severe flooding across Thailand has affected millions of people, with authorities reporting that 23 people have died since heavy flooding began earlier this month.
Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said flooding remains a serious problem across 29 provinces and Bangkok, affecting more than 2.6 million people and hundreds of thousands of households.
The situation has been particularly difficult in Bangkok, where exceptionally heavy rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems and left roads, residential areas and businesses underwater. The city received around 320 millimetres of rain over three days, close to its normal September rainfall total.
Water Levels Begin to Fall in Parts of Bangkok
Some major roads in the capital have started to recover as floodwater gradually recedes. However, officials say low-lying communities could take considerably longer to return to normal.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said drainage operations were continuing, with authorities working to remove water from affected roads and residential areas.
Thailand’s Meteorological Department is still warning that heavy rainfall could occur in parts of the country. Its September 29 forecast says isolated heavy rain remains possible in northern, central and eastern areas, with a risk of flash flooding, overflowing waterways and landslides.
Emergency Response Expanded
Government agencies, local authorities, rescue teams and volunteers have been working to assist people trapped or affected by rising water.
Authorities have opened temporary shelters and are prioritising assistance for vulnerable residents. Thailand’s government has also approved billions of baht in emergency funding to support people and communities affected by the flooding.
The government’s response includes immediate financial assistance as well as longer-term plans to improve drainage and flood protection around Bangkok and central Thailand.
Airport Disruptions Add to Travel Problems
The flooding has also affected Thailand’s aviation sector.
Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok has continued operating, but staffing problems caused by the flooding have disrupted airline operations. Thai Airways said it planned to cancel around 30 flights on Tuesday, while thousands of pieces of baggage remained unprocessed.
The disruption comes during an important period for Thailand’s tourism industry, increasing concerns about the wider economic consequences of the disaster.
Authorities Continue Monitoring the Situation
While rainfall has eased in Bangkok, officials continue monitoring rivers, drainage channels and areas vulnerable to additional flooding.
Thailand’s disaster authorities have warned communities along waterways to remain alert as water levels can change quickly. The government is continuing relief operations while assessing damage to homes, roads, businesses and other infrastructure.
The flooding remains a developing situation, with authorities expected to provide further updates as water levels change and recovery operations continue.
