Aussie travellers have been urged to monitor conditions closely as Thailand deals with widespread flooding after days of heavy rain, with Bangkok among the worst affected areas.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) declared the capital a disaster affected area after almost 300mm of rain fell over 48 hours, flooding major roads and forcing thousands of residents into temporary shelters.
Floodwaters have since begun to recede in some parts of the city as rainfall eases, but authorities are continuing to drain canals and warn of further disruption
Thailand’s Tourism Authority reports that Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports remain open, while the Airport Rail Link, BTS and MRT are operating. However, some roads and rail services have been affected and travellers have been advised to allow extra time.
Smartraveller’s latest Thailand advice warns that heavy rain is occurring across the country and that landslides and flash flooding can happen without warning.
It advises travellers to check weather updates, follow local advice and avoid flooded or damaged areas. Australians should check routes and road conditions, allow extra time when travelling and keep passports and important documents safe and dry.
Smartraveller also advises Australians to check with their airline or tour operator before travelling and make sure their travel insurance covers bad weather and related disruptions.
The advisory notes that Thailand’s wet season runs from May to November in the north and central parts of the country, with severe storms, landslides and widespread seasonal flooding capable of disrupting flights, roads, electricity, transport and communications.
Travellers already in affected areas are advised not to enter flooded areas without guidance from local authorities and to contact tour operators before travelling to areas experiencing flooding.
For Australians heading to Thailand in coming days, the message is to continue monitoring conditions rather than assume that normal transport services will operate as scheduled.
