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Thailand: Flooding, associated travel disruption likely across country during rainy season until October
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) on 30 August warned of further heavy rainfall in the coming days, particularly in north, north-eastern, central and eastern areas, including the capital Bangkok. Travel and essential services are frequently disrupted in the country during the rainy season that typically lasts until October.
Flash floods and landslides have affected various districts of the northern Chiang Mai province after heavy rainfall on 28-29 August inundated roads and damaged infrastructure, particularly in the district of Suthep and the provincial capital Chiang Mai. Although the authorities have indicated that pumps are in use to drain flooded areas, water levels on some canals are dangerously high, which could result in further flooding. Landslide warnings also remain in place in mountainous areas.
Meanwhile, the authorities on 29 August indicated that floodwaters in the southern province of Trang have begun to recede after heavy rainfall resulted in significant flooding across several districts in the province, including in the popular tourist beach of Mai Pak Meng in Sikao district and the provincial capital Trang. Any further rainfall could exacerbate disruption to travel and essential services, while areas prone to landslides, including Yan Ta Khao and Huai Yot districts, remain under alert.
Travel Briefing
Personnel planning overland travel in the coming days are advised that journeys may be hampered by flooding and the ongoing risk of landslides in affected provinces. Until the weather improves, thoroughfares may be rendered impassable at short notice by floodwater, debris or infrastructural damage, which could necessitate lengthy diversions for motorists. Overland journeys in rural areas can be particularly difficult during bouts of heavy rain. Prior to setting out, travellers should liaise with local contacts to ascertain the feasibility of journeys. It is inadvisable to self-drive as driving standards are generally poor; it is preferable to hire a car and driver. If undertaking road travel, allow extra time to complete journeys and ensure your vehicle is adequately equipped for the driving conditions.
Torrential rainfall and associated disruption can also affect air and rail transport. As such, all travellers are advised to reconfirm transport bookings with their providers in the coming days. Disruption to power and other essential services can also be expected in flood-affected areas, with repairs taking longer in remote, rural locations. Power cuts are unlikely to affect centrally located offices and business-class hotels in urban areas, which are usually equipped with back-up power generators; however, travellers are advised to check if this is the case.
Travel Advice Summary
Flash floods can occur rapidly and unexpectedly. Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded road ahead, turn around and find another route to your destination.
We do not hold details of specific flights. Travellers planning or scheduled to fly to or from airport in regions with forecast for heavy rainfall should contact the relevant airline to reconfirm schedules prior to departure.
Travellers and expatriates are advised to consider alternate routes to avoid flooded areas and to allow extra time to travel around affected locations.
Comply with any directives issued by local authorities or emergency services.
In case of flooding, turn off the main sources of electricity and/or gas in your dwellings. Arrange or stack furniture, valuables, appliances, chemicals, toxic substances, and rubbish beyond the reach of floodwaters. Preserve phone battery life and minimise use of telephone.
Avoid floodwaters, which may be contaminated. Use treated or boiled tap water or bottled water for drinking. Choose food that is thoroughly cooked and served while steaming hot.
Avoid floodwater if you have any wounds or illness; though intact skin, which comes into contact with floodwater, does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk, wounds can become infected. If you have any open cuts or sores, keep them clean and covered. If a wound develops redness, swelling, or drainage, seek immediate medical attention.
Monitor TMD's website, the local media and our website for further information on weather-related disruption; be prepared to adjust travel itineraries accordingly.
Thailand: Lampang-Chiang Mai rail route reopens; renewed travel disruption possible as further rainfall forecast
Rain-related disruption should be expected to continue in the coming days, after the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) on 12 September issued a heavy rain advisory for northern, north-eastern, eastern and south-western areas of the country. Although rail services between Lampang and Chiang Mai provinces resumed on 11 September – after the closure of the route on 8 September following a landslide – the rainfall may cause renewed travel difficulties in some areas. Earlier on 10 September, a major flood barrier on the Yom river broke, flooding large parts of the city of Sukhothai (Sukhothai province), including the commercial centre and main market. The authorities cut power to several areas due to floodwaters.
Travel Briefing
Personnel planning travel should liaise with local contacts and check the weather to ascertain the feasibility of journeys before setting out. Flooding and landslides can significantly delay overland journeys during the rainy season, which generally lasts until October in most areas.
Thoroughfares may be rendered impassable at short notice by floodwater, debris or infrastructural damage, which could necessitate lengthy diversions for motorists. Overland journeys in rural areas can be particularly difficult during and after bouts of heavy rain.
If undertaking road travel, allow extra time to complete journeys and ensure your vehicle is adequately equipped for the driving conditions. It is also generally inadvisable to self-drive as driving standards are generally poor; it is preferable to hire a car and driver.
Although the Lampang-Chiang Mai route has reopened, train travel is also frequently affected by heavy rainfall. Rail travellers should reconfirm their bookings before setting out for the station during the rainy season.
Essential services, such as electricity and communications, may face short-duration disruption, though this is unlikely to affect centrally located offices and business-class hotels in main cities, which are generally equipped with back-up generators.
Travel Advice Summary
Travellers and expatriates are advised to monitor the TMD website and consider alternate routes to avoid flooded areas; allow extra time to travel around affected locations.
Flash floods can occur rapidly and unexpectedly. Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded road ahead, turn around and find another route to your destination.
Travellers should monitor the national railways website for further information on rail services.
Comply with any directives issued by local authorities or emergency services.
In case of flooding, turn off the main sources of electricity and/or gas in your dwellings. Arrange or stack furniture, valuables, appliances, chemicals, toxic substances, and rubbish beyond the reach of floodwaters. Preserve phone battery life and minimise use of telephone.
Monitor the TMD's website, the local media and our website for further information on weather-related disruption; be prepared to adjust travel itineraries accordingly.
Programs: Flying Blue Gold and Virgin America for a few months
Posts: 480
I did not go last November because of the floods and waited until Christmas time ,
So many of my friends got flooded out and lost the little bit that they had , I hope this year they will be OK ,
Not sure what the Government could have done in a year , but there is so much political in-fighting that little gets done ,
Avoid vicinity of US embassy in Bangkok on 18 September
Thailand: Avoid vicinity of US embassy in Bangkok on 18 September during planned protest against controversial film
An anti-US demonstration has reportedly been planned on 18 September outside the US embassy, located on Wireless Road in the capital Bangkok, to denounce a controversial film produced in the US that is widely perceived as being insulting to Islam. The police have stated that several hundreds of people will march to the embassy from Lumpini Park between 13.00 and 14.00 (local time). There have so far been no major demonstrations in country over the film, and the planned event is expected to pass off peacefully. Nevertheless, travellers should anticipate increased precautionary security measures, such as the deployment of additional police personnel and security cordons, which are likely to result in localised traffic disruption.
Travel Advice
Personnel travelling in the vicinity of the US embassy in Bangkok on 18 September are advised to exercise caution; in the event that a large crowd begins to congregate, vacate the area immediately until the situation stabilises.
Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution.
Anticipate travel disruption due to heavy rainfall in north, central, eastern areas
Thailand: Anticipate travel disruption due to heavy rainfall in north, central, eastern areas
Disruption to overland travel should be expected in Phitsanulok, Nakhon Sawan, Chainat, Sukothai, Ayutthaya and Ang Thong after heavy rainfall in recent days triggered flooding in parts of these provinces. Although the authorities have ruled out major inundation in the capital Bangkok, continued adverse weather conditions due to the south-west monsoon may lead to sporadic travel difficulties in previously-affected areas. Meteorologists have forecast mild-to-heavy rainfall in northern, central and eastern parts of the country in the near term.
Travel Briefing
Personnel planning travel should liaise with local contacts and check weather reports to ascertain the feasibility of journeys before setting out. Flooding and landslides can significantly delay overland journeys during the rainy season, which generally lasts until October in most areas. Overland journeys in rural areas can be particularly difficult during and after bouts of heavy rain. Thoroughfares may be rendered impassable at short notice by floodwater, debris or infrastructural damage, which could necessitate lengthy diversions for motorists. Reports on 19 September indicated that flooding had affected a section of the Phahon Yothin road, which connects Lampang and Tak provinces. If undertaking road travel, allow extra time to complete journeys and ensure your vehicle is adequately equipped for the driving conditions. It is also generally inadvisable to self-drive as driving standards are generally poor; it is preferable to hire a car and driver.
Rail travellers should reconfirm their bookings before setting out for the station during the rainy season; rail services between Lampang and Chiang Mai provinces resumed on 11 September after being suspended for three days due to a landslide. Essential services, such as electricity and communications, may face short-duration disruption, though this is unlikely to affect centrally located offices and business-class hotels in main cities, which are generally equipped with back-up generators. Earlier, a major flood barrier on the Yom River on 10 September broke and flooded large parts of Sukhothai city (Sukhothai), including the commercial centre and main market.
Travel Advice Summary
Travellers and expatriates are advised to liaise with local contacts and monitor the Thai Meteorological Department's website to ascertain the feasibility of overland travel in affected areas. Consider alternative routes to avoid flooded locations and allow extra time to complete your journey.
Flash floods can occur rapidly and unexpectedly. Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded road ahead, turn around and find another route to your destination.
Travellers should monitor the national railways website for further information on rail services.
Comply with any directives issued by local authorities or emergency services.
In case of flooding, turn off the main sources of electricity and/or gas in your dwellings. Arrange or stack furniture, valuables, appliances, chemicals, toxic substances, and rubbish beyond the reach of floodwaters. Preserve phone battery life and minimise use of telephone.
Monitor the local media and our website for further information on weather-related disruption; be prepared to adjust travel itineraries accordingly.
Thailand: Protest against controversial anti-Islam film planned outside US embassy
Thailand: Protest against controversial anti-Islam film planned outside US embassy in Bangkok on 27 September
According to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), a demonstration is due to take place from 10.00 (local time) on 27 September outside the US embassy in the capital Bangkok. The protest is being held to denounce a controversial anti-Islam film produced in the US. Participants are expected to gather at nearby Lumphini Park and then march to the US mission on Wireless Road.
There have so far been no major demonstrations over the film in the country, and the planned event is expected to pass off peacefully. Nevertheless, travellers should anticipate increased precautionary security measures around the embassy, such as the deployment of additional police officers and security cordons, which – in addition to the march itself – are liable to exacerbate traffic congestion in the vicinity, delaying overland journeys.
Travel Advice
Personnel travelling in the vicinity of the US embassy in Bangkok on 27 September are advised to exercise caution; in the event that a large crowd begins to congregate, vacate the area immediately.
Plan journeys avoiding Lumphini Park and the route of the rally to minimise inconvenience.
Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution.
Monitor our website for further updates.
Clashes between rival activists in Bangkok underline need to avoid all demonstrations
Thailand: Clashes between rival activists in Bangkok underline need to avoid all demonstrations
Clashes on 25 September between members of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD, commonly known as the ‘Red Shirts') and the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD, also known as the ‘Yellow Shirts') in the capital Bangkok underlined the need to avoid all demonstrations due to a credible risk of security incidents. At least five people were injured when PAD and UDD activists clashed outside a security building on Phahonyothin Road. Rival gatherings had been organised over the questioning on the day of a teacher who had publicly accused a key UDD supporter of defaming the royal institution. The violence erupted when the demonstrators were informed that the meeting had been postponed to 29 October. The protesters dispersed after the intervention of the security forces.
Separately, the Criminal Court in Bangkok on 28 September is expected to announce its verdict on the bail status of UDD leader Yoswarit Chooklom, who has been charged with sedition for his alleged involvement in the April-May 2010 unrest in Bangkok. Personnel in the capital are advised to plan routes, where possible, circumventing the vicinity of the Criminal Court on 28 September and the security building on Phahonyothin Road on 29 October to minimise travel delays and to mitigate the risk of exposure to potential incidental violence.
Travel Advice Summary
Avoid all demonstrations and rallies because of a credible risk of security incidents. In the event of encountering protest activity, vacate the area; do not stop to watch or photograph demonstrators.
Plan routes, where possible, circumventing the vicinity of the Criminal Court in Bangkok on 28 September and security building on Phahonyothin Road on 29 October.
Monitor the local media and our website for related developments.
FYI, Flooding due to heavy rains is expected through Sunday in Central areas including Bangkok.
Central Thailand, including capital, braces for heavy rain through Saturday
BANGKOK, Sept 28 – Provinces in Thailand’s central region--including Bangkok--will continue to be battered by heavy rainfalls through tomorrow, according to Royal Chitradon, chairman of the subcommittee on water situation analysis.
He said he had coordinated with government agencies concerned including the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Royal Thai Navy and the Public Works and Town and Country Planning Department to help with drainage to alleviate flooding.
Mr Royal said the monsoon trough now passing through the Central Plains will maintain its strength and cause heavy rains through Saturday.
In addition to Bangkok municipality preparations, Dr Royal said the Royal Thai Navy has prepared boats to push out water from Klong Ladkrabang, Klong Hua Takae, Klong Bangkhen and Klong Bang Sue.
The Public Works Department has set up 65 pumps in the city's flood-prone areas to pump floodwater from roadways to canals, he said. (MCOT online news)
Authorities warn of heavy rainfall, floods on 4-8 October during passage of storm
Personnel travelling in or to the country from 4-8 October are alerted to the possibility of travel disruption following a warning by the Thai meteorological department relating to the passage of tropical storm Gaemi. Heavy rainfall and related flooding are forecast across northern, north-eastern, central, eastern and southern areas of the country, including the capital Bangkok. The passage of the storm, which is concurrent with the ongoing southwest monsoon, is expected to result in severe weather conditions in several provinces, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Phisanulok, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, Trat, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Ranong, Phangnga and Krabi.
Travel Briefing
The trajectory and intensity of tropical storms are difficult to predict and may change abruptly. Nevertheless, heavy rain and strong winds associated with Gaemi's passage are liable to disrupt flights to and from airports serving urban areas on the storm's path, including Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Don Muang Airport (DMK). Travellers are advised to re-confirm their flight status before setting out.
The authorities in the capital Bangkok have stated that, while measures have been taken to minimise flooding, many areas of the city remain prone to flooding. Earlier, the local authorities issued flood warnings for the following roads: Thanon Ratchadaphisek; Pracha Rat Bamphen at the Huai Khwang intersection; Thanon Sri Ayutthaya (near Suan Pakkad Palace); Thanon Pracha Suk; Din Daeng expressway; Sri Ayutthaya intersection; Thanon Ramkhamhaeng between soi 26 and 24; Thanon Phetchaburi; Asok intersection; Thanon Asok Montri at soi 31, 33 and 39; Mae Phra and Rama IV intersections; Vibhavadi Rangsit Road (near the Army Club); Thanon Phahonyothin near the Kaset intersection; Thanon Nakhon Chaisi (near the department of excise); and Thanon Phatthanakan between soi 9 and 17.
In addition, personnel should be aware of the possibility of landslides and flash floods, which may render roads impassable at short notice. Low-lying, coastal and mountainous areas will be the most vulnerable to flash flooding, sea surges and mudslides. Rail services may also be subject to delay, though trains are not recommended for business travellers. While it is inadvisable to undertake overland travel during a storm, personnel are reminded that overland journeys are problematic even in favourable weather conditions, as driving standards are poor and road conditions chaotic. It is preferable to hire a car, preferably with an English-speaking driver. Prospective motorists should liaise with local contacts to ascertain the status of proposed routes before setting out, and be prepared for lengthy diversions.
Additional rainfall can be expected to exacerbate overland travel disruption, especially in areas already affected by flooding, such as the provinces of Prachin Buri, Sa Kaew, Chachoengsao, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phichit, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom and Kanchanaburi. Even in areas where floodwaters have receded, residual disruption to overland travel should be anticipated until the authorities can repair damaged roads and bridges. Personnel should liaise with local contacts and check weather reports to ascertain the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
The authorities may cut electricity to areas in which floodwaters exceed three feet (one metre) in depth; however, business-class hotels and centrally located offices are likely to be equipped with back-up generators.
The authorities have also warned of strong waves of up to 6-9 feet ( 2-3 metres) in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Ships have been advised to proceed with caution and all small boats are to be kept ashore.
Outlook
The country receives large amounts of rainfall during its wet season, which usually runs until November. As such disruption to travel and essential services should be expected in the country during this period.
Travel Advice Summary
Travellers and expatriates are advised to liaise with local contacts and monitor the TMD's website to ascertain the feasibility of overland travel in affected areas. Consider alternative routes to avoid flooded locations and allow extra time to complete your journey.
Flash floods can occur rapidly and unexpectedly. Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded road ahead, turn around and find another route to your destination.
Travellers should monitor the national railways website for further information on rail services.
Comply with any directives issued by local authorities or emergency services.
In case of flooding, turn off the main sources of electricity and/or gas in your dwellings. Arrange or stack furniture, valuables, appliances, chemicals, toxic substances, and rubbish beyond the reach of floodwaters. Preserve phone battery life and minimise use of telephone.
Monitor the local media and our website for further information on weather-related disruption; be prepared to adjust travel itineraries accordingly.
Attempted sexual assault of Israeli national on Koh Phangan
An attempted sexual assault of an Israeli tourist on 1 October on the resort island of Koh Phangan (Surat Thani province) serves as a reminder of the need for personnel to adopt basic security precautions. The Israeli national – a 23-year-old woman – was injured after being attacked near a hotel; the perpetrator fled after the victim resisted. The incident occurred at around 03.30 (local time) when the victim was walking alone on a beach after attending a ‘Full Moon Party'; a local hotel employee was later arrested. Such incidents can occur after late night beach parties, underlining the need for female foreigners to avoid travelling alone after dark.
Travel Briefing
The incident underscores the risk posed by crime targeting foreigners in the country. The rate of serious crime against foreigners in Thailand is generally low; petty and opportunistic crime poses the principal risk to personnel. Nevertheless, travellers should be aware that criminals at popular tourist destinations are known to prey on foreigners by offering them spiked food or drinks before robbing or sexually assaulting them.
Thailand, particularly the capital Bangkok, is generally a safe destination for female business executives travelling alone. Reported incidents of sexual harassment are far lower in Thailand than in many other Asian countries, such as India or Indonesia. The latest incident serves as a reminder of the need to adopt basic security precautions.
Travel Advice Summary
Female travellers are advised to adopt sensible security precautions to mitigate the risk of sexual assault, such as not travelling alone after dark, carrying a mobile telephone programmed with useful contact numbers at all times, and watching your drink in bars and nightclubs to avoid being drugged.
Personnel should avoid ostentatious displays of wealth that could increase the risk of a robbery-motivated attack.
Be aware that confidence tricksters may target foreigners. Be informed of common minor scams and be wary of strangers and their motives. Do not accept food or drinks from strangers.
Take basic, sensible security precautions against petty and street crime.
A 24-hour tourist police hotline is dedicated to helping foreigners who need to report crimes. While they have no jurisdiction over matters usually handled by the normal police, they may be able to help with translation or with contacting the relevant embassy. The hotline can be reached by dialling 1155 from any telephone.
Businesswomen travelling alone are advised to take the following general precautions:
- Ensure that room numbers remain confidential. Do not display the room key tag in public areas and insist that the room number not be given to any inquirers.
- Insist on a room with a key-chain, deadlock and spy-hole.
- Book a suite on an executive floor if business meetings are planned in the hotel.
