The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is considering whether to declare some areas in the capital disaster zones, so financial assistance can be provided to flood victims, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said today (Wednesday).

He said that the matter is not yet concluded, as the city administration will have to assess the damage in the affected areas, in accordance with the guidelines of the Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, and more consultations are required because, in such a case, the city administration will have to secure funding from the government.

He did admit, however, that the flooding situation in some areas of the city remains critical.

The governor also said that he has sought help from the Royal Irrigation Department, by providing more water pumps to drain floodwater into canals.

Help has also been sought from the Royal Thai Navy for “water pushing vessels” to drive water in the swollen Chao Phraya River into the Gulf.

The high water level in the river is making it impossible for excess water in canals to be drained into it.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department forecasts heavy to very heavy rain this afternoon and overnight in Dusit, Nong Chok, Min Buri, Lat Krabang, Phaya Thai, Bang Phlat, Bang Sue, Chatuchak and Ratchathewi districts.

Moderate rain is anticipated for Phra Nakhon, Bang Kapi, Pathumwan, Yan Nawa, Huai Khwang, Bangkok Noi, Nong Khaem, Din Daeng, Wattana, Bang Khae, Kan Na Yao, Saphan Soong and Khlong Sam Wa.

Rainfall in the 24 hours to 7am today was measured at 85.5mm in Thung Khru district, 72.5mm in Rat Burana district, 72.5mm in Bang Kho Laem district and 67.0mm in Bang Na district.