Bangkok Flood Situation Stabilizing, Conditions Depend on Rainfall

BANGKOK, Sept 26 (TNA) - Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said Saturday that the city's flood situation is currently stabilizing following nearly 48 hours of persistent rainfall, with conditions expected to improve if no new rain arrives.

The continuous downpours, dumping nearly 300 millimeters in parts of the capital, overwhelmed major canals and submerged dozens of thoroughfares. The severe weather also triggered widespread flooding across adjacent metropolitan provinces, including Nonthaburi and Pathum Thani, prompting disaster mitigation agencies to issue emergency alerts.

In response to the crisis, Bangkok authorities declared a comprehensive disaster zone covering all 50 districts to accelerate relief operations. City-run shelters are currently housing nearly 1,000 displaced residents.

The widespread waterlogging caused significant travel disruption, stranding small passenger cars and motorcycles on inundated roads.

The disruption also led many residents to stock up on essentials. Shelves at numerous convenience stores, particularly in residential and flood-prone areas, saw high demand and were quickly cleared of food, instant noodles, ready-to-eat meals, and bottled water.

Speaking at the city's flood control center, Chadchart noted that drainage tunnels and pumping stations are operating at their maximum capacity of 1,200 cubic meters per second. Officials estimate it will take two to three days for floodwaters to fully recede, provided no additional heavy rain falls.

Residents in low-lying and canal-side zones have been urged to stay updated on official announcements, move vehicles to designated free parking areas, and contact city emergency hotlines for assistance. -819 (TNA)