Key facts
- At least 60 people have died nationwide due to floods since mid-September.
- Bangkok received about 300mm of rain in late September, equivalent to half a year's average rainfall in London, over two days.
- Thousands of people stayed in over 230 shelters across Bangkok.
- Thai Airways experienced flight cancellations due to staff being unable to report for work.
- Flooding is ongoing in 27 of Thailand's 77 provinces.
- The government has declared a flood disaster across all 50 of Bangkok's districts.
Deadly monsoon floods have inundated Thailand since mid-September, claiming at least 60 lives and causing widespread destruction to homes, crops, and livestock. The economic toll is mounting as factories have also been flooded.
Bangkok, built on a floodplain, experienced a critical breaking point in late September when approximately 300mm of rain fell over three days, overwhelming its drainage system. While floodwaters have largely receded from the capital, many neighborhoods were transformed into stagnant lakes, with residents using makeshift boats like floating fridges to navigate submerged streets. The government declared a flood disaster across all 50 of Bangkok's districts.
Authorities reported around 40 deaths in flood-related incidents in Bangkok alone, with causes including drowning and electrocution. Thousands of people have been displaced and are staying in over 230 shelters. The flooding has also disrupted transportation, with Thai Airways experiencing flight cancellations due to staff shortages and many schools closing.
Central Prachinburi province has been particularly hard-hit, with 19 deaths reported and over 188,000 people affected by overflowing rivers. Flooding remains ongoing in 27 of Thailand's 77 provinces.
The city is now engaged in a massive clean-up effort as it prepares to host the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank meetings, scheduled to begin next week. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed government agencies to manage the situation to minimize disruptions to the international gatherings.