Bangkok: Heavy rain lashed the capital overnight. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration reported heavy rain in several areas last night, with the highest in Pathumwan at 111 mm. Drainage efforts are underway this morning, with only five areas remaining flooded, and the area is expected to return to normal within an hour.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt revealed the heavy rain in Bangkok, stating that since approximately 3:00 AM, continuous and heavy rain has fallen in several districts, particularly Pathumwan, which saw the highest rainfall of 111 mm. This was followed by Ratchathewi with 97 mm, Pom Prap Sattru Phai with 92 mm, Huai Khwang with 82 mm, Phaya Thai with 80 mm, and Phra Nakhon with 78 mm. Last night’s heavy rain was mostly concentrated in inner Bangkok and the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River. As of midnight, 57 flooding areas were reported on major roads and business districts, including Rama IV, Rama III, Khlong Toei, and the surrounding Ratchadaphisek-Prachasongkhro-Sala Daeng-Ratchadamri areas.
This morning, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) hastened the drainage of water using pumping stations and mobile pumps at critical points, causing water levels to drop rapidly. Currently, only five flooded areas remain: Ratchadaphisek Road in front of the Criminal Court, Ratchadamri Road, Saladaeng Road, Pracha Uthit Road, and Prachasuk Road. The public is asked to temporarily avoid routes still flooded.
Governor Chadchart then visited Prachasuk Road in Din Daeng District to monitor the flooding situation. He found a large amount of trash washed away by rainwater, clogging drains along Prachasuk Road and connecting alleys. This has resulted in delays in drainage and temporary flooding in some areas. He has ordered officials to expedite the repair process.
Officials also monitored the water situation on Ratchadaphisek Road in front of the Ratchada Criminal Court. They reported that water levels in the Ratchada-Lad Phrao area have almost completely receded, with only minor water remaining in some inbound lanes. The Ratchayothin Tunnel is open to traffic, except for the far left lane, which is still partially flooded. Drainage is being accelerated and is expected to return to normal within an hour.
“The cause of this flooding was short-term heavy rainfall, unrelated to the water level in the North or the Chao Phraya River. All water pumping systems and drainage stations were operating at full capacity, causing the water to recede rapidly within hours. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is expediting the construction of a drainage system along Ratchadaphisek Road, connecting to Khlong Lat Phrao. This project will improve drainage efficiency along Ratchadaphisek Road and prevent recurring flooding in inner areas. Completion is expected by 2026,” said Governor Chadchart.