BANGKOK, THAILAND – New satellite data revealed on Thursday confirm that more than 1,300 square kilometers of central Thailand remain underwater, destroying vast stretches of farmland and livelihoods.
Satellite images confirm the full extent
Images from the THEOS-1 satellite, released on Thursday, exposed the magnitude of damage across four central provinces. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) confirmed a total of 813,817 rai of farmland had been submerged.
“813,817 Rai of farmland are flooded.”
said Gistda, Thai Space Agency
The provinces Ayutthaya, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, and Nakhon Pathom showed extensive areas covered in stagnant floodwaters. Experts assessing the imagery said entire zones were cut off from supply routes and communication links.
“The images prove: the flood is worse than claimed.”
said Unnamed Expert, Agricultural Analyst
Ayutthaya suffers the heaviest losses
The historic province of Ayutthaya recorded the worst flooding, with 405,067 rai of farmland inundated across 12 districts. Farmers in Sena, Phak Hai, and Bang Ban reported total crop destruction and rising concerns over the safety of the city’s ancient temple sites.
“We sacrifice our harvest so that Bangkok stays dry.”
said Unnamed Rice Farmer, Ayutthaya
Government pledges long-term compensation
During an inspection visit, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced financial relief for affected agricultural workers.
“Farmers will receive monthly compensation.”
said Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister
The prime minister stated that the payments would continue until all fields become dry again. Recovery timelines remain uncertain, however, with many rural families facing months without income.
“Words don’t help; we need action.”
said Unnamed Farmer, Bang Pa-in District
Bangkok hit by separate flash floods
In contrast, the capital Bangkok experienced flash flooding of its own as 90 millimeters of rain fell within three hours. Major roads such as Ratchayothin and Lat Phrao became impassable. Urban authorities clarified that these urban floods stemmed from intense local rainfall rather than northern runoff.
“Cold winds from the South China Sea are responsible.”
said Hydro-Informatics Institute, Bangkok
Farmers face unprecedented losses
In Suphan Buri, around 323,144 rai were submerged, while Nakhon Pathom reported another 82,674 rai affected. Orchard owners warned of total devastation.
“The water stands higher than ever before.”
said Unnamed Fruit Farmer, Bang Pla Ma
Representatives from Gistda confirmed that satellite monitoring will continue daily and that all data would be distributed to rescue and relief teams nationwide.
“We provide all information to emergency teams.”
said Gistda Spokesperson, Satellite Operations Division
Key Data Summary
- 813,817 rai flooded in total (approximately 1,300 sq km)
- Ayutthaya: 405,067 rai, Suphan Buri: 323,144 rai, Nakhon Pathom: 82,674 rai, Ang Thong: data pending
- 90 mm of rainfall recorded over Bangkok in three hours
- 12 districts in Ayutthaya severely cut off
- Government aid: monthly compensation promised to farmers
Officials warned that further rain in early October could worsen the crisis. Relief workers across four provinces continued to reinforce levees and distribute emergency supplies to hundreds of thousands of displaced residents.