The United States has issued a Travel Alert for American Traveling to Thailand

The United States has issued a Travel Alert to guide its citizens of difficulties related to travel in the flood-affected areas of Thailand.

Severe flooding has hampered transportation and limited access to some essential services in the central and lower parts of northern Thailand, including capital Bangkok.

The U.S. State Department recommended against all but essential travel to the affected regions.

Tourist destinations, such as Phuket and Chiang Rai, are unaffected by the current flooding.

A series of particularly strong seasonal storms with exceptionally heavy rainfall have produced extensive flooding throughout many provinces in Thailand, causing significant damage and loss of life. The flood waters are now affecting central and lower parts of northern Thailand. The affected areas include metropolitan Bangkok and the provinces of Sukhothai, Pichit, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chainat, Singhburi, Angthong, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Lopburi, Sara Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Pracheen Buri, Chacherngsao, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom, Kamphang Peth, and Tak.

The flooding is becoming more widespread in the outer Bangkok Metropolitan area. It is possible that portions of inner Bangkok may become flooded, particularly in areas along the Chao Phraya River. There are reports of shortages of bottled water and selected food items within the Bangkok metropolitan area, and it is possible that transportation and electric power could be disrupted. Since it is unclear how long these conditions will last, the State Department urged U.S. citizens living in flood-affected areas to follow the advice of local authorities, monitor local media, and refer to the U.S. Embassy web page for specific information.

In many flooded areas surface transportation has either been suspended or diverted to other areas. Portions of highways are closed and bus and train services linking Bangkok with points to the north are suspended and some routes to the northeast have been diverted. Don Muang Airport, which typically handles a number of domestic flights, is closed due to flooding. Flights into and out of Don Muang Airport have either been cancelled or diverted to Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok’s main international Airport.

US travelers have been advised to check with their airlines for additional details.

U.S. citizens who travel to or reside in Thailand are strongly advised to enrol in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrolment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without internet access may enrol directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, making it easier for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of an emergency.

Suvarnabhumi airport is operating normally.