At least 23 people have died in floods across Thailand, as authorities work to clear floodwaters from Bangkok and restore normal operations at the country’s main airport.
The Interior Ministry said the deaths have been reported across 42 provinces since September 16, including four in Bangkok.
The capital was hit by more than 12 inches of rain in just three days last week—nearly as much as Bangkok normally receives throughout the entire month of September.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said floodwaters on major roads could drain within two days, although some other inundated areas may take up to a week to clear.
Airport disruptions
Travel disruptions continue at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok’s main international gateway.
Thai Airways said about half of its staff have been unable to report for work because of the flooding. The airline plans to cancel about 30 flights on Tuesday, or roughly 30% of its scheduled departures from Bangkok.
About 5,600 pieces of baggage also remain stranded at the airport.
Thai Airways CEO Chai Eamsiri said almost all flights over the past two days were delayed, with fewer than 3% operating on schedule.
The airline expects reduced flight operations from Bangkok to continue for at least three days.
Government approves flood aid
The flooding has caused an estimated $367 million in damage across 24 provinces and is raising concerns for Thailand’s tourism-dependent economy.
The Thai Cabinet has approved more than $119 million in emergency funding to address the impact of the floods.
The government has also approved a long-term drainage project worth about $4.8 billion. The eight-year project is aimed at improving flood protection across central Thailand, including Bangkok and surrounding areas.
Thailand has been dealing with widespread flooding since September 16, with authorities continuing rescue, relief and recovery operations in affected communities.
