The FCDO updated its Thailand travel advice early on Monday 28 September with new information on severe flooding. It says flooding is affecting parts of the country after heavy rainfall in a number of provinces, including Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan.
The most significant line for anyone working in the capital: "All 50 districts of Bangkok have been declared disaster-affected areas."
The FCDO adds that the Thai government has declared special public holidays on Monday 28 September and Tuesday 29 September in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan, and that many government offices and services may be closed or operating with reduced capacity. It warns that travel disruption, including road closures and flooding of low-lying areas, is possible, and tells travellers to follow the advice of local authorities if they plan to travel.
What is new. The FCDO's own change note for this update begins "Information on Severe Flooding". The same page continues to say that border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia remain suspended, tourist sites close to the border are closed, the FCDO notes unexploded landmines in the area, and it says travel to affected border regions should be avoided.
What it means for teams
Plan routes for the next two days on the assumption that some roads in and around Bangkok will close at short notice, and build in slack for any move that has to happen on time, including airport runs. Identify higher ground and an alternative route for every regular journey, and confirm hotel and venue contingency plans for power and water.
Expect government business to be limited on Monday and Tuesday in the four named provinces. Anything that depends on a Thai official, whether immigration paperwork, a permit or a police report, may be delayed.
Keep principals briefed and keep checking the FCDO page for changes to this advice. This is a weather warning, not a change to the FCDO's advice level for Bangkok, and it should be reported to clients in those terms.
