Severe flooding in Bangkok has brought the Thai government’s disaster response into sharp focus, as questions arise regarding the city’s preparedness and response to the increasingly heavy rainfall. Since September 24, heavy rains have inundated various parts of the capital, including Lat Krabang and Bang Kapi, submerging roads, homes, and vehicles. In response, authorities have declared all 50 districts of Bangkok as disaster-affected areas, opened emergency shelters, and deployed personnel and equipment to support impacted communities.
Criticism has been directed at the timing and effectiveness of emergency warnings. Some residents have expressed concerns about whether they received adequate time to secure their belongings and relocate vehicles before floodwaters rose. The government has mobilized military personnel and emergency vehicles, while transport authorities have coordinated relief efforts across road, rail, water, and air services. Drainage and pumping operations are ongoing in a bid to lower water levels.
The flooding coincides with a decline in political support for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Bhumjaithai Party, as indicated by the latest NIDA Poll conducted from September 18 to 23. The survey, which occurred before the most severe flooding began, showed that 13.76% of respondents favored Anutin as prime minister, down from 21.68% in the previous quarter. Support for the Bhumjaithai Party also decreased, standing at 12.08%, compared to 17% previously.
While the poll does not reflect public sentiment regarding the government’s handling of the current floods, any subsequent shift in opinion would likely be captured in future surveys. For now, the focus remains on ongoing relief operations, effective drainage, timely public warnings, and continued support for communities affected by the flooding in Bangkok.