Floods ease but new warnings issued for 41 provinces
Thailand remains in recovery mode after the latest round of monsoon flooding, with 26 to 30 provinces affected between late September and early October. The Thailand Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reports that approximately 1.17 million households, or about 3.2 million people, have been impacted across the country. While water levels are receding in some areas, the Thailand Office of National Water Resources has issued a fresh alert for 41 provinces and Bangkok to prepare for new flooding between 5-7 October.
The flooding, caused by continuous heavy rainfall from the monsoon trough and high water levels in major rivers, has not reached the severity of the 2011 floods. However, the combination of water released from dams and high tides in Bangkok and surrounding areas has slowed drainage. As of 3 October, 13 provinces — mostly in the Central and Eastern regions — still saw rising water, while levels in 12 provinces and Bangkok had begun to fall.
Travel disruptions continue at airports and on railways
Bangkok's main airports have felt the strain. Both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang experienced flight delays and baggage backlogs as ground staff faced difficulties reaching work. U-Tapao International Airport, in Rayong province, opened at full capacity through 4 October to serve as a backup. The State Railway of Thailand adjusted schedules on the Kanchanaburi and Eastern lines after tracks were submerged, including near the famous Bridge Over the River Kwai area.
In Bangkok, major roads including Krung Thep Kritha, On Nut, Lat Krabang, and Phahonyothin saw flooding of 5-30 centimetres. The Expressway Authority of Thailand urged drivers to take extra care. Tourists faced missed flights and altered itineraries, with tour operators covering costs for last-minute changes. The Thailand Ministry of Tourism and Sports set up a 24-hour hotline (1155) to assist affected travellers. Some attractions temporarily closed: Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai shuttered nature trails until 30 September, while Khlong Lan National Park in Kamphaeng Phet closed all tourism activities from 1-7 October due to heavy rain and landslide risks.
Financial aid and insurance coverage now available
The Thailand Federation of Industries estimates initial manufacturing sector damage at 1,018 million baht, with potential effects on third-quarter GDP. Financial institutions have rolled out relief measures including debt moratoriums, reduced interest rates, and additional loans for home repairs. Those affected in September can access 9,000 baht per household in government aid. A new National Catastrophe Insurance policy took effect on 1 October, covering future flood damage.
For residents, the Thailand Institutional for Occupational Safety and Health warns of hidden dangers as waters recede: electrical hazards, structural damage, slippery surfaces, pathogens, chemicals, and venomous animals. Experts should inspect properties before re-entry, followed by proper cleaning.
Visa changes aim to tighten immigration controls
Beyond the floods, 2026 brought significant visa policy changes affecting foreign visitors. The most notable shift: citizens of 60 countries previously granted 60-day visa exemption now receive only 30 days. The list of visa-exempt countries dropped from 93 to 54, while Visa on Arrival eligibility shrank from 31 countries to just 4. India, however, gained new 30-day visa-free entry, replacing its previous Visa on Arrival requirement.
All foreign travellers must now register a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) within 72 hours before arrival. The stated purpose of these changes is to improve security and prevent misuse of long-stay privileges for illegal work or criminal activity. Authorities say the "One Country, One Right" policy simplifies the system, though some visitors will now need to apply for visas in advance for stays exceeding 30 days.
Neither flooding nor policy changes have closed Thailand off to tourists. Most destinations remain accessible with advance planning. The key is checking conditions before departure — road status, attraction closures, and current visa requirements — and building flexibility into any October itinerary.
