Bangkok Declares Disaster Across All 50 Districts After Heavy Flooding

Authorities in Bangkok have declared a disaster across all 50 districts of Thailand's capital after almost three days of continuous heavy rain triggered widespread flooding.

The declaration, announced on Saturday, September 26, 2026, gives local authorities greater scope to mobilise resources and respond to the flooding. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said nearly 300 millimetres (11.8 inches) of rain had fallen since Thursday.

The prolonged rainfall has flooded roads, homes, shops and restaurants, while rising water levels in Bangkok's extensive canal network have increased the risk of further inundation.

Eastern Bangkok Among Worst-Affected Areas

Governor Chadchart said eastern parts of the city were among the areas most severely affected by the flooding.

He warned that canals across Bangkok were already carrying very high water levels as authorities worked to pump water out of affected areas.

Residents living close to canals have been urged to remain alert, while motorists have been advised to move their vehicles to higher ground.

Local reports said accumulated rainfall was particularly high in parts of eastern Bangkok, including Min Buri and Khlong Sam Wa.

Homes and Roads Submerged

The heavy rain has disrupted movement across parts of the capital, with floodwaters covering major roads and entering properties in low-lying areas.

Some residents living close to canals have reported water reaching significant levels around their homes.

Somkid Pheuk-ngam, a 67-year-old vendor living near a canal, told AFP that she had been forced to close her shop for two days because of the flooding. She compared the current situation with the major floods that affected Thailand in 2011.

Bangkok authorities have been operating pumps and deploying emergency resources as they attempt to lower water levels.

Authorities Prepare Shelters and Support Vulnerable Residents

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has directed district authorities to prepare temporary shelters and assist vulnerable residents, including bedridden patients and people who depend on medical equipment.

Schools that are not affected by flooding are being prepared as possible temporary shelters, while officials have also been instructed to distribute sandbags, manage traffic and improve drainage.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel through heavily flooded areas.

More Heavy Rain Forecast

Thailand's Meteorological Department has warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in Bangkok and other parts of the country through September 27.

The department said an active low-pressure system and strengthening southwest monsoon could bring additional rainfall, increasing the risk of flash floods, overflowing waterways and waterlogging in vulnerable areas.

The continued rainfall is therefore expected to remain a concern for Bangkok authorities as emergency teams work to manage existing floodwaters.

Memories of the 2011 Floods

The current flooding has renewed memories of Thailand's devastating 2011 floods, which killed more than 500 people and affected millions of homes.

Authorities are closely monitoring the current situation as rainfall continues, particularly in low-lying communities and areas close to Bangkok's canals.

For now, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow emergency instructions as the city works to control the flooding.