Bangkok declares all 50 districts disaster-affected as flood warning issued

BANGKOK — All 50 districts of Bangkok have been declared disaster-affected areas as widespread flooding continues across the capital, with authorities issuing an urgent warning over critical canal levels and advising motorists to avoid more than 20 flood-hit roads.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt expanded the city’s declared flood-disaster area from three districts to all 50 on Saturday, 26 September, as heavy rain continued to cause flooding, traffic disruption and impacts on daily life.

The declaration allows government agencies and local authorities to act more quickly within their legal powers and coordinate flood-response efforts and assistance for affected residents.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) issued an urgent cell broadcast alert to people in Bangkok at 09:22, warning that water levels in the city’s canals had reached critical levels and were continuing to rise.

“Bangkok. Be warned that water levels in canals are at a critical level and rising. Areas along canals and low-lying areas should move belongings to higher ground, secure valuable assets, and avoid traffic. Please check travel routes. If you require assistance, please contact your local district office,” the alert said.

The warning came as flooding continued to disrupt roads across the capital following heavy rain over the past two days.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) advised motorists to avoid 21 flood-affected roads, with some sections closed and flooding worsening in others.

Affected routes include Vibhavadi Rangsit, Phahon Yothin, Ratchadaphisek, Pattanakan, Lat Phrao, Srinakarin, Sukhumvit, Ramkhamhaeng, Rama 9 and Ramintra roads.

Motorists were also advised to drive slowly and exercise caution on Kamphaeng Phet 2, Ratchawithi, Si Ayutthaya, Bang Na-Trat and Rama 2 roads.

The BMA issued the road warning at 08:30 on Saturday based on its flood-monitoring information.

Authorities said they would continue to closely monitor rainfall and water levels and coordinate with relevant agencies to mitigate the impact of flooding and provide assistance across the capital.