Thailand’s government approves emergency funding after deadly floods that impacted millions

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, was recovering from days of torrential rains and widespread flooding on Tuesday, although some disruptions remained. Following a deluge that had battered the country since mid-September, the government approved emergency funds totaling $122 million (4.1 billion baht) to compensate affected individuals nationwide.

The capital's main airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport, was struggling with a major baggage backlog due to the floods, with Thai Airways apologizing for a massive luggage backlog caused by staff shortages and flight cancellations. While Bangkok was expected to return to normal, heavy rain was forecast for other parts of the country on Tuesday.

At least 19 people had died from the floods, with four fatalities occurring in Bangkok. The flooding affected 29 out of 76 provinces, with residents in some areas still dealing with inundated neighborhoods. Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa estimated that the flooding caused approximately 22 million baht ($655,000) in damage to businesses across the nation.