2 days ago

Bangkok Floods After Torrential Rain Force Thousands To Evacuate

Bangkok received an unusually large amount of rain in just a few days.

The water covered roads, homes and shops across parts of the city.

In some places, people had to walk through water up to their waists.

Thousands of people moved to shelters, but many others were still trapped at home.

Some residents lost electricity and running water.

Roads, taxis, food deliveries and flights were disrupted.

Officials are using boats and mobile kitchens to bring help and meals to people.

Flooding has also affected many other provinces in Thailand.

Experts said the floods could hurt Thailand’s economy if conditions do not improve.

Key facts

Rainfall: Nearly 320mm fell over two or three days, almost the amount Bangkok usually receives throughout September.
Evacuated residents: At least 5,901 people moved to 234 evacuation centres in Bangkok.
Residents unable to leave: More than 80,000 people in Bangkok were reportedly unable to evacuate their homes.
National impact: Flooding has affected 41 provinces since September 16, killing at least eight people and disrupting more than 580,000 homes.
Estimated damage: Nationwide economic damage could reach at least 11 billion baht, or about $327 million.
Relief measures: Authorities are mobilising boats and mobile kitchens, with a goal of providing three meals daily during the flooding and for at least seven days afterward.
Economic forecast: An economist estimated the floods could cut annual GDP growth by 0.3 percentage points to 2.1%.

NDTV · 2 days ago