Rain check? Not really in Bangkok these days. After weeks of heavy showers, the whole city is drenched and the rain just won’t quit. But it’s not just the wet weather – the Big Mango is on high alert as rising sea levels threaten to flood low-lying areas along the Chao Phraya River, with the risk lasting through Sunday.
According to the Thai Meteorological Department, isolated heavy rains are expected in the upper regions, with especially intense downpours likely in the North and Northeast. Combine that with high tides and saltwater intrusion in the Chao Phraya River and the flood risk is on the rise.
In response, authorities have ramped up daily inspections of flood barriers and drainage systems along the river and key canals such as Khlong Bangkok Noi, Khlong Mahasawt and Khlong Phrakhanong.
While the floodwalls stand pretty tall, between 2.8 and 3.5 metres above sea level, there are still 32 unfinished sections, known as ‘gapped barriers’. These vulnerable spots stretch about 4.35 kilometres in total. For now, they’re being patched up with sandbags, stacked to around 2.4 to 2.7 metres, to help keep the rising water at bay.
So, there’s no need to panic just yet as authorities are doing their best to keep things under control. But if the situation does take a turn, it’s a good idea to be prepared, especially for those living near the river. Consider having sandbags on hand to help protect your home from rising water.