Thailand: Floods claim at least 22 lives

At least 22 people have died in floods across large parts of Thailand. According to civil protection, a total of more than 2.6 million people in 29 provinces and the capital Bangkok are now affected by the floods. After days of heavy rain, many streets and residential areas were under water.

Although the rainfall in Bangkok and many other parts of the country has now eased, the flood situation remains tense, according to authorities. At least in the capital, the situation could return to normal within two to three days - unless it rains heavily again.

In many areas, large amounts of water still flow downstream from the higher regions and only reach the lower areas with a delay. As a result, the levels continue to rise. At the same time, the current high tide in the sea is making it harder for water to be released from rivers.

Emergency aid and disruptions to air traffic

Emergency aid worth the equivalent of around 107 million euros for those affected by the flood is to be distributed to flood victims across the country. The Thai government decided this. Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa spoke of the equivalent of around 575,000 euros in damage to companies.