Bangkok on Alert as High Tides and Rain Threaten Flooding

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

Bangkok is bracing for potential flooding as high sea levels threaten low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya River, a situation expected to persist through Sunday. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is collaborating with several agencies, including the Royal Irrigation Department and the Royal Thai Navy, to closely monitor conditions and issue alerts as necessary, according to Jessada Chandraprabha, director of the Drainage and Sewerage Department.

Daily inspections of flood barriers and drainage systems in the Chao Phraya River and connected canals, such as Khlong Bangkok Noi and Khlong Mahasawt, are underway due to high tides and saltwater intrusion. Bangkok's permanent flood barriers stand between 2.8 and 3.5 metres above mean sea level, yet there are 32 "gapped barriers" still under construction. To mitigate flood risks, these are temporarily reinforced with sandbags, elevating them to 2.4–2.7m above the mean sea level.

A total of 21 permanent barrier sections, equalling 2.58km, are complete in key locations like Si Phraya Pier and Riverside Condo. Additionally, construction continues on four other segments, expected to finish before October, while budget proposals and funding plans are in place for further sections.

Meanwhile, the Thai Meteorological Department has issued warnings for continued heavy rain in the north due to a monsoon trough, which could lead to flash floods and landslides. Although rainfall is expected to lessen from tomorrow, isolated heavy showers may still occur. The current southwest monsoon conditions over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are contributing to a gradual decline in rainfall, but seas remain rough with waves up to 2 metres in storm-affected areas.

Residents in northern and low-lying areas are advised to stay vigilant and avoid travel through flood-prone zones, with farmers urged to prepare for potential weather damage. These proactive measures and warnings are crucial to navigate the upcoming challenging weather conditions and to safeguard the community against flooding risks.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-30