Bangkok declared ‘flood disaster’
Bangkok has been declared a disaster zone after devastating floods swept through Thailand’s capital, a popular destination for Australian tourists.
The city’s Governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, said the crisis “poses a risk to people’s lives” and could damage public and private property, and the flood emergency was most severe near canals, reports Reuters.
Thousands of people have been evacuated in Bangkok after heavy rain triggered major flooding. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
Rescuers evacuate a resident from a flooded area to a safer place after heavy rain in Bangkok. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
Thousands of residents have been forced to flee their homes, while the Thai army has set up field kitchens and temporary shelters for residents.
Major roads were flooded with cars partly submerged, forcing people to wade through waist-high water after nearly 300mm of rain fell within 48 hours.
Authorities designated schools as temporary accommodation and asked residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
The main area of concern is people living close to the city’s canals, with officials urging residents to move their possessions to higher ground.
People packed supermarkets to stock up on essential supplies.
Cars became submerged when roads were hit by major flooding in Bangkok. AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit
“I’m worried too, because I haven’t stocked up on food beforehand, and I’ve never faced this kind of situation alone before, since my parents aren’t with me,” said 19-year-old Sansuk Laowatcharakul.
Bangkock’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi, was operating normally though the tourism authority advised travellers to allow an extra two to three hours in their plans.
Authorities warn more rain is expected in the coming days.
The Australian government’s Smartraveller service has advised citizens in Thailand to check weather updates, follow local advice, and avoid flooded or damaged areas.
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