Thousands huddle in Bangkok shelters as Thai flood damages seen at $320 million
SPY•Floods in 41 Thai provinces have killed at least eight people and affected more than 580,000 homes. Damage is estimated at 11 billion baht ($327 million), and an economist said the floods could cut this year's GDP growth by 0.3 percentage points to 2.1%.
1. Flooding across Thailand
Thousands sheltered in Bangkok evacuation centres on Monday as parts of the city remained flooded after intense weekend rain. Nearly 6,000 people had moved to 234 centres, while more than 80,000 residents in flooded areas were unable to leave their homes, the interior ministry said.
2. Economic damage estimate
Floods since September 16 have killed at least eight people and disrupted more than 580,000 homes across 41 provinces. An economist at Rangsit University estimated nationwide damage at at least 11 billion baht ($327 million), with losses likely to rise unless conditions improve. He said the floods could reduce this year's GDP growth to 2.1% and third-quarter growth to 1.7%.
3. Evacuations and relief
Bangkok received 320 mm of rain over two or three days last week, inundating neighbourhoods and overwhelming drainage. The interior ministry said mobile kitchens and boats were being mobilised, with a goal of providing three meals daily during the flooding and for at least seven days after waters recede. Authorities in eastern Rayong province ordered evacuations after two reservoirs swelled beyond capacity.
