Northeast Thailand has recently been hit by severe flooding, causing widespread disruption and damage. As the floodwaters move south, there are growing concerns about the potential impact on Bangkok in the coming weeks. This post explores the recent flooding events, their economic impact, and the looming threat to Bangkok, including the city’s ongoing struggle with sinking and the lack of long-term solutions.
Recent Flooding in Northeast Thailand
Heavy rainfall in September 2024 has led to severe flooding in several northeastern provinces, including Ubon Ratchathani, Nong Khai, and Nakhon Ratchasima1. The floods have affected over 30,000 families and caused significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and agriculture2. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported that the floods have already resulted in economic losses amounting to billions of baht2.
Predicted Impact on Bangkok
As the floodwaters from the north and northeast flow downstream, Bangkok is bracing for potential flooding. The Chao Phraya River, which runs through the heart of the city, is expected to rise significantly due to the increased water discharge from upstream dams3. The Office of the National Water Resources has warned that Bangkok and surrounding provinces could face severe flooding from late September to early October4.
Economic Impact
The economic cost of flooding in Thailand is substantial. The 2011 floods, which were among the worst in the country’s history, caused an estimated 1.425 trillion baht (approximately $46.5 billion) in damages5. The recent floods in the northeast have already disrupted industrial output and could lead to further economic losses if Bangkok, a major economic hub, is affected4. The potential cost of flooding in Bangkok alone could run into billions of baht, considering the city’s dense population and critical infrastructure.
Bangkok Sinking: A Long-Term Challenge
Bangkok faces a unique challenge as it is not only threatened by flooding but is also sinking at an alarming rate. The city is sinking by 1-2 centimeters per year due to excessive groundwater extraction, land subsidence, and the weight of urban development. Rising sea levels due to climate change exacerbate this problem, making Bangkok increasingly vulnerable to flooding.
Predictions suggest that if the current rate of sinking continues, Bangkok could be regularly underwater by 20351. Despite these challenges, there have been limited long-term plans to address the issue. Efforts have primarily focused on short-term solutions such as building flood walls, improving drainage systems, and installing water pumps. However, experts warn that these measures are insufficient in the face of rising sea levels and continued land subsidence. Comprehensive land use planning, stricter regulations on groundwater extraction, and investment in green infrastructure are urgently needed to mitigate the long-term risks.
A bleak future without urgent action
The recent flooding in northeast Thailand and the potential impact on Bangkok highlight the urgent need for effective flood management and long-term planning. As climate change continues to intensify extreme weather events, it is crucial for Thailand to adopt sustainable solutions to protect its cities and economy. Addressing the issue of Bangkok sinking requires a multifaceted approach that combines immediate flood prevention measures with long-term strategies to ensure the city’s resilience against future threats.
Notes Asia 