Thailand, one of the planet’s most popular tourist destinations, has seen severe flooding across several provinces in the latter half of September. This past weekend, 330mm of rain fell in just 48 hours, leaving residents of Bangkok wading waist-deep through the streets.
It’s currently Thailand’s monsoon season, which typically runs from June to October. But the flash floods, caused by over a month’s worth of rain falling in just two days, have led to Bangkok being declared a ‘disaster-affected zone’.
Have a trip booked to Thailand? Here is all the latest information and travel advice.
Is it safe to travel to Thailand?
If you have plans to visit Bangkok, it’s not safe right now. A staggering 330mm of rain (that’s around 12 inches) fell within 48 hours over the end of last week, and all 50 districts of the Thai capital have been declared ‘disaster-affected areas’, according to Reuters.
Major roads have been flooded, with people seen wading through waist-deep water and cars partially submerged. The city’s governor has said the conditions pose a ‘risk to people’s lives’, according to CNN, and there’s likely to be severe damage to both private and public property.
Schools have been designated as temporary accommodation for affected residents, and those who live near canals – the worst affected areas – have been asked to evacuate and move their possessions to higher ground. The army has also set up field kitchens and shelter.
Have flights to Thailand been cancelled?
The flooding affected Bangkok’s main airport, Suvarnabhumi, particularly badly, with passnegers seeing delays of up to six hours to claim their baggage. But both of Bangkok’s international airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airport, remained open on Sunday September 27, according to Thai Examiner.
If you have plans to arrive at one of Bangkok’s airports in the coming days, check your flight status directly with your airline.
What is the latest government travel advice?
The UK government’s FDCO travel advice page reads: ‘Severe flooding is affecting parts of Thailand following heavy rainfall in a number of provinces, including Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan. All 50 districts of Bangkok have been declared disaster-affected areas. Travel disruption, including road closures and flooding of low-lying areas, is possible.’
‘The Thai government has declared special public holidays on 28 and 29 September in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan. Many government offices and services may be closed or operating with reduced capacity. Follow the advice of local authorities if you plan to travel.’
Can I get a refund if I cancel my trip?
The FDCO’s travel advice page maintains its advice against travel to certain parts of Thailand, namely areas along the country’s borders with Malaysia and Cambodia. But the flooding has not resulted in a ‘do not travel’ advisory for the country at large, so it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your trip without penalty. Consult your travel provider directly to see what can be done about cancelling or rescheduling.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.