Thailand flood waters gain on Bangkok

Thailand floods are the worst flooding in decadesand it is spreading farther into Bangkok, the national capital, causing even more disruption and hardships for the flood-weary nation. The flooding, triggered by up to three months of abnormally heavy monsoon rain, has already killed more than 350 people, according to multiple news outlets.

Capital area residents have been warned to expect another four to six weeks of flooding, as the slow-moving fresh-water tide flows south from the nation’s interior.

On Monday, roads near the Don Muang domestic airport were flooded.  Also north of the capital, the Chatuchak market was said to be threatened by flood waters. The exceptionally high flow of water southward out of central Thailand, following the Chao Phraya River to the sea, was forcing emergency measures. Sluice gates have been opened, flooding some areas so as to preclude flooding of the capital’s vital core area.

One aspect of the flooding was that of crocodiles running loose in waters on the outskirts of Bangkok. Thai authorities have been warning that “thousands” of crocodiles are roaming the flood waters, Australia’s ABC News said on Monday.

Crocodiles apparently strayed from inundated enclosures in area wildlife parks. The government has offered a bounty for the capture of the wayfaring reptiles. (AccuWeather)

Another major test is expected between Friday and Sunday when seasonal high tides flow up the Chao Phraya, meeting run-off water from the north.

More than 1000 people have been evacuated from their homes in the northern Bangkok districts of Don Muang and Lak Si because of overflow from canals in the area.