At least 23 people killed in Thailand floods — TimesLIVE

At least 23 people have died in Thailand as a result of heavy rains and flooding since September 16, including four in Bangkok. The disaster affected 42 provinces across the country, while the capital saw major disruptions at Suvarnabhumi, its largest airport, TimesLIVE reports, citing Reuters.

Bangkok flooded after downpours

Last week, Bangkok received about 320 mm of rainfall in three days—almost as much as the city normally receives during the entire month of September. The capital's governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, said water should recede from major roads within two days, while clearing other flooded areas could take up to a week.

Authorities estimate that the floods caused approximately $367 million in damage across two dozen provinces. They also warn that the effects of the disaster could affect the country's economy, which relies heavily on tourism.

More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.

Disruptions at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Bangkok's airports remained operational, but Thai Airways reported serious difficulties at Suvarnabhumi: about half of the airline's employees were unable to get to work. The carrier planned to cancel around 30 flights from Bangkok, accounting for about 30% of departures scheduled for Tuesday.

Thai Airways CEO Chai Eamsiri said that nearly all flights had been delayed over the previous two days, while fewer than 3% operated on schedule. According to him, the reduction in flights from Bangkok will continue for at least three days. About 5,600 pieces of baggage from the airline's flights also remained at the airport.

Thailand's Cabinet approved more than 4 billion baht, or $119 million, to address the consequences of the floods. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul also announced approval of a long-term drainage project worth 160 billion baht, designed to last eight years.