Bangkok is on heightened alert for possible flooding this week as rising sea levels threaten low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya River. The alert remains in effect through Sunday, with both temporary and permanent flood protection measures being implemented.
According to Jessada Chandraprabha, Director of the Drainage and Sewerage Department, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is coordinating with the Royal Irrigation Department, the Hydrographic Department, the Royal Thai Navy, and other agencies to closely monitor the situation.
Warnings will be issued when necessary.
The current threat stems from a combination of high tides and saltwater intrusion into the Chao Phraya River, prompting daily inspections of flood barriers and drainage systems.
Checks are also being carried out along key canals, including Khlong Bangkok Noi, Khlong Mahasawt, and Khlong Phrakhanong.
While Bangkok’s permanent floodwalls stand between 2.8 and 3.5 metres above mean sea level (MSL), 32 sections, referred to as “gapped barriers,” remain incomplete.
These vulnerable stretches, spanning 4.35 kilometres, are being temporarily reinforced with sandbags at heights of 2.4 to 2.7 metres above MSL.
So far, 21 floodwall sections covering 2.58 kilometres have been completed in high-risk areas, including Si Phraya Pier in Bang Rak and Riverside Condo in Bang Kho Laem.
Four additional sections are under construction in districts such as Yannawa, Khlong Toei, and Bang Phlat, and are expected to be completed before the October flood season.
Mr. Jessada also confirmed that budget proposals have been submitted for seven more barrier segments, totalling 1.17 kilometres. Plans for five further sections, covering 0.79 kilometres, are currently in development.
These future installations will be located in Dusit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok Noi, Bang Phlat, and Rat Burana.
Meanwhile, the Thai Meteorological Department has warned of continued heavy rainfall in the North today due to a passing monsoon trough. The risk of flash floods and landslides remains high.
Rainfall is expected to ease starting tomorrow and continue declining into next week, although isolated heavy showers may still occur.
The department noted that the weakening southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand is contributing to the decrease in overall rainfall.
Despite the improving outlook, seas remain rough, with waves reaching up to two metres in storm-affected areas.
Authorities are urging residents in northern and low-lying areas to remain vigilant, avoid flood-prone zones, and take necessary precautions. Farmers are also advised to protect crops and prepare for potential weather-related impacts.
