Bangkok declares flood disaster after 48-hour downpour leaves roads submerged. Heavy rain has caused widespread flooding across the Thai capital, with canals filled and roads submerged as authorities warn of continued risk.
Governor Chadchart Sittipunt confirmed that 300mm of rain fell over nearly 30 hours, leading to 50 districts being declared emergency zones. Residents near canals are advised to move belongings to higher ground as water levels rise, with some areas experiencing floodwaters at waist level.
Authorities report that 980 people are in temporary shelters and 36 bed-ridden individuals have been transferred to hospitals. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is working to drain floodwater, with pumping stations operating at full capacity. The situation is expected to stabilize if rain stops, though it will take 2-3 days to clear the water.
The flood is the worst in years, with some residents comparing it to the 2011 event that killed over 500 people. Officials warn of continued risk from low pressure systems affecting eastern and central Thailand, with potential for flash floods and river overflow.