Bangkok Warned of Severe Flood Risk as Northern Waters Rise
Academic Seri Supparathit warned that Bangkok and surrounding areas could face flooding lasting about a month if drainage is not accelerated, citing four combined risk factors that could create a disastrous scenario. He urged local authorities to activate the L‑Alert system to warn residents promptly.
Associate Professor Dr. Seri Supparathit said that, compared with the 2011 floods that left communities submerged for months, the expected flood volume for 2026 is about 66% lower, but water levels could still exceed river capacity, meaning inundation might last only about a month if drainage is swift. He warned that without rapid pumping, floodwaters could linger longer, especially in low‑lying areas on Bangkok’s eastern and western fringes such as Rangsit Field, the Raphiphat Canal, and the lower section of Klong 6 Wa, where water is already pooling and overflowing. The four simultaneous risk factors—standing water awaiting release, increased rainfall, incoming northern runoff, and sea‑level surge—could combine to create a disastrous situation, he said. Current flow rates are around 2,600 cubic metres per second, and an additional 400 cubic metres per second from the Yom River or heavy rain would push the total to 3,000 cubic metres per second, a worst‑case scenario requiring heightened preparedness. Dr. Seri stressed that local administrations must act as the core of the L‑Alert warning network, using public address systems, sirens, patrol vehicles, online media, and mobile phone alerts to inform residents so they can respond or evacuate promptly.
