Bangkok:The city is closely monitoring water levels and urgently draining water from all areas in preparation for anticipated rainfall from October 10-13. Officials have expressed concern about the eastern side of Bangkok, which remains particularly vulnerable.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittiphan discussed the city's water situation and preparations to cope with upstream water and rainfall in high-risk areas during a meeting at Bangkok City Hall. He noted that while improvements are seen in some parts of the city, the overall situation remains precarious, especially in the eastern areas where water continues to accumulate and flow from Lat Krabang and Chachoengsao Province.
The Khlong Prawet Buriram area is facing slow drainage due to the large influx of water from the east. The Bang Kapi and Lat Phrao districts are also under close watch due to high water levels in the canal system. Normally, Bangkok can manage 60-70 millimeters of rainfall, but current water levels in drainage areas and canals are high, which could lead to quicker flooding if heavy rainfall occurs. Residents in at-risk areas are advised to keep belongings on higher ground until conditions improve.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is expediting water drainage from canals and retention ponds, repairing heavily used water pumps, and relocating pumps to support problematic areas, aiming to enhance drainage efficiency.
Governor Chatchart highlighted the likelihood of increased rainfall between October 10-13, emphasizing the need for close weather monitoring. The drainage system must be prepared, particularly as Bangkok hosts the World Bank and IMF meetings. The city plans to improve its flood warning system to be more detailed, focusing on specific communities rather than general areas along canals.
The next approach will involve "event-based warning systems," advising residents to take precautions according to their area's risk level. The public is encouraged to report any unusual water situations to the BMA to help monitor conditions at the community level.
Resources are being mobilized to assist the eastern areas, including food, medical supplies, and water pumping equipment. Nong Chok and nearby provinces like Chachoengsao, Pathum Thani, and Samut Prakan are also receiving attention as they continue to deal with water presence. The BMA is committed to expediting efforts to assist residents and minimize the flooding impact despite natural limitations.