Heavy Rain Swamps Bangkok, Flooding Disrupts Traffic Across Thailand
Flooding in Bangkok and central Thailand has disrupted traffic and affected over 84,000 people across 21 provinces, with heavy rain forecast to continue through Sunday.
Heavy rainfall pounded large parts of Bangkok on Saturday, inundating roads, snarling traffic and prompting some residents to leave their homes, as Thai authorities warned the downpour would persist through the weekend.
The rain, which began on Thursday afternoon, has been driven by a strong low-pressure system over the central region combined with strengthening southwest monsoon conditions, according to the country's Meteorological Department. The agency said most parts of Thailand could expect continued heavy rain until Sunday.
Water levels in Bangkok's major canals rose above 20 centimetres (7.8 inches), officials said, with floodwaters spreading across the city, particularly in its central and eastern districts. Several roads were submerged and traffic came to a standstill in some areas, while regional bus services linking the capital to eastern provinces were suspended.
Nationwide, more than 84,000 people across 21 provinces have been affected by the flooding, with the central region among the worst hit. The government said emergency warnings were sent to residents in affected areas through the cell-broadcast system.
Air traffic control authorities said airport operations were continuing normally, though some flights could face delays because of weather-related detours. Suvarnabhumi International Airport was among the facilities where authorities confirmed the possibility of disruptions.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the flooding should subside once the rain eases, adding that city officials were working to drain the water as quickly as possible.
Authorities have set up several shelters for evacuees and opened some government facilities to provide parking for vehicles displaced by the high water.