BANGKOK, Thailand – The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is on alert for heavy rain and floodwaters from the north, as well as rising tides. Spokesperson Ekwaranyu Amrapal has warned riverside communities outside flood barriers to stay vigilant from September 19 to 23, following a forecast from the Meteorological Department regarding a tropical depression expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to various regions, including Bangkok.
The BMA has put in place preventive measures against flooding due to rain, runoff, and high tides. The Flood Protection Control Center is closely monitoring the water situation, with regular meetings and coordination between the Hydrographic Department of the Royal Thai Navy, the Royal Irrigation Department, the Meteorological Department, and other relevant agencies. This cooperation is aimed at minimizing the impact of floods in lower Chao Phraya basin areas and mitigating the effects on Bangkok residents.
In preparation, BMA personnel have been stationed at flood-prone areas, ready with equipment and tools for swift response. Emergency teams are on standby to assist residents 24/7 in case of urgent situations. Regular checks are also being conducted to ensure the integrity of flood barriers along the Chao Phraya River, Khlong Bangkok Noi, Khlong Mahasawat, and Khlong Phra Khanong.
Bangkok has a flood protection system spanning 87.93 km, including 79.63 km of permanent barriers built by the BMA, with heights ranging from 2.80 to 3.50 meters above mean sea level. These barriers can handle up to 3,000 cubic meters of water per second from northern runoff. Additionally, there are 8.30 km of private and other government agency barriers, including those managed by the Royal Irrigation Department and the Bank of Thailand.
Some areas outside the main flood barriers have weaker protection, and officials have been reinforcing these with sandbags and patching leaks to prevent flooding from high tides and northern runoff.
Residents outside the main flood protection zones are urged to closely monitor water levels and high tides, especially as passing boats could create waves that impact homes. The BMA has coordinated with the Marine Department to enforce speed restrictions on boats to minimize the effect on riverside communities. (TNA)
