Sat Sep 28 21:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Bangkok’s Floods: A Look Back at the City’s Watery Past
**Bangkok, Thailand** – As recent reports highlight extensive flooding in Thailand’s north and northeast, a veteran Bangkok Post columnist reflects on the city’s own history of inundation. The writer recounts personal experiences navigating the flooded streets of Bangkok, painting a vivid picture of the chaos and hardship endured during major storms.
One particularly memorable event took place in 1986, after a powerful storm submerged eastern Bangkok. The writer, wading through knee-deep water on Sukhumvit Road, described the treacherous conditions and the desperate measures people took to get around. He vividly recalls the surreal experience of making his way to the office, only to be met with a clueless colleague oblivious to the city’s watery woes.
Another anecdote describes a harrowing journey home during a thunderstorm, forcing the writer to wade through dark, flooded streets after a tuk-tuk driver refused to continue. This incident highlights the dangers and challenges faced by Bangkok residents during periods of heavy rainfall.
The article also touches upon the city’s unique relationship with animals, focusing on the recent surge in popularity of pygmy hippos at Thai zoos. The writer humorously suggests that these hippos, given names like “Moo Deng” and “Moo Toon”, might be wondering what all the fuss is about.
Ultimately, the article serves as a reminder of Bangkok’s resilience in the face of natural disasters and the enduring power of human spirit. It also offers a glimpse into the city’s unique character, where humor and a love for animals intertwine with the reality of navigating challenging conditions.
First Piper 