Bangkok floodwaters recede but heavy rain threat remains

Bangkok's floodwaters have begun to recede as rain has eased, but the threat of heavy rain remains in the Thai capital. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration declared all 50 districts disaster areas on September 25 to facilitate government response to the flooding. The city received nearly 300mm of rain over 48 hours, leading to major road flooding and submerging some vehicles.

Authorities prepared 233 temporary shelters and relocated about 4,200 people. However, rain returned early on September 27, with the Meteorological Department warning of further heavy downpours that could worsen flooding. Many areas in western central Thailand are expected to receive heavy rain over the following 24 hours, with some areas forecast to experience very heavy rain.

In response to the persistent heavy rain and potential flash floods, rising floodwaters, and landslides, the BMA's Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Directorate declared all districts disaster zones on September 25. Schools have closed on September 28 as a precaution to protect students, parents, teachers, and staff. Authorities advise residents to avoid low-lying areas prone to recurrent flooding and to navigate cautiously, particularly in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand, where strong winds and waves are present. Mariners are also advised to steer clear of areas experiencing thunderstorms.