Bangkok came really close to flooding this year.
The last time it happened was ten years ago, before I arrived in Thailand. This year, the northern provinces flooded, and it really looked like the floodwaters were going to make their way to Bangkok. The streets flood a few times every year, but I've never been here for a real flood, when the Chaophraya overflows its banks and the canals spill over to drown out the city.
I think we are past the worst of the rain this year. At least, I hope so! The government has done a good job of protecting the city from floods (Bangkok is pretty much at, or even slightly below, sea level), but there's not a ton you can do against Mother Nature.
I was down in Banglamphu this week (near the Grand Palace), and noticed how sandbags had been stacked up against the riverside by the navy headquarters.
It looks like everything is just barely being held back. Now, the water is almost right up the the floodwall. It looks like everything is holding for now, but I've never seen the Chaophraya so high before.
The city is currently on flood alert until at least the end of the month. Fortunately the area I live is fairly far inland. I didn't even realize that the flooding was getting this bad until I saw the river for myself.
Wish us luck here in Bangkok!
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