Bangkok: Bangkok is working 24 hours a day to cope with an 80% chance of rain, accelerating water drainage, collecting garbage, and monitoring risk areas to prevent further flooding. Mr. Ekwaranyu Amrapal, spokesman of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, together with Mr. Asa Sukkhang, director of the Drainage Information Division, Drainage Office, updated the daily rain situation and the rain response plan after the Meteorological Department predicted significant rainfall across Bangkok.

According to Thai News Agency, the Bangkok spokesman noted that while water levels receded quickly in many areas after yesterday’s heavy rain, some places remained flooded longer than anticipated. Officials at the Flood Prevention Center are actively monitoring today’s weather, which anticipates rainfall in 80% of the city. Mr. Asa emphasized the Meteorological Department’s prediction, noting that rain clouds have formed across several districts, including Prawet and Bang Na, with light rain already recorded in Phaya Thai District.

Mr. Asa elaborated that the previous day saw six hours of heavy rain, resulting in over 130 millimeters of rainfall, predominantly in central Bangkok areas like Lat Phrao and Wang Thonglang. This led to significant flooding, exacerbated by power outages at some pumping stations and fallen trees obstructing the Bang Sue Canal. The Flood Prevention Center coordinated with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand to swiftly resolve power issues.

In response to persistent flooding, the Drainage and Sewerage Department is actively removing fallen trees and clearing canals to improve water drainage. Despite challenges, water levels in key canals like Khlong Lat Phrao and Khlong Saen Saep are being reduced to prepare for incoming rainfall, with real-time updates available on the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration website.

Mr. Asa noted that while recent rainfall was substantial, it was not the heaviest in the past decade. A heavier downpour occurred in 2022, though it was more localized. Current forecasts suggest no immediate rain from Pathum Thani Province, offering temporary reprieve. The public can monitor rain radar data, jointly produced by Bangkok and the Weathernews Company from Japan, online.

All relevant Bangkok Metropolitan Administration officials remain on alert, focusing on garbage collection and maintaining drainage systems. The Flood Prevention Center is committed to 24-hour operations, closely monitoring previously affected areas. Residents experiencing flooding can report issues via Traffy Fondue or contact designated helplines.