Thailand: BMA Prepares for Potential Floods

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has warned that all districts of the capital will be hit by heavy rainstorms during September 19 and 20 which may cause widespread flooding.

Deputy Bangkok governor Sanya Cheenimitr said dredging works have been carried out in major canals and sewers, and water pumps have been installed in preparation for the massive downpours.

He urged commuters to avoid imminent traffic congestion by choosing to trvale during off peak hours during the storm.

The BMA has listed Bang Sue, Chatuchak, Dusit and Sai Mai districts among 10 flood-prone and low-lying areas in Bangkok which are forecasted to be battered by rainfall of over 60 millimeters per hour.

Experts expressed concern at the prospect of heavy rain in the capital, as Bangkok as a basin does not have the drainage capacity that could handle large volume of rainfall.

Three coordination centers and several mobile units have been set up to deal with the possible deluge at Din Daeng, Bueng Nong Bon and Chatuchak.

Due to days of torrential rains, water flow through the Chao Phraya dam have increased, flooding communities in Ayutthaya province and damaging more than 1,000 homes.

[mappress]

Press Release, September 18, 2013