Heavy rains dumped about 320 mm (12.6 in) across Bangkok over three days, prompting a disaster declaration and widespread flooding in 44 provinces. The storms forced temporary closures at four Toyota production sites and led Thai Airways to suspend inbound and outbound cargo through October 6. Officials reported conflicting fatality counts (24 vs. 40) and are draining floodwaters while working to restore transport and supply services.
Thailand Floods Halt Four Toyota Plants and Suspend Thai Airways Cargo; Bangkok Declared Disaster Zone
An airport officer arranges baggage from Thai Airways flights at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, after heavy rain and flooding disrupted the airline's ground operations, in Bangkok, Thailand, September 29, 2026. REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha
Severe flooding across Thailand forced a temporary halt to production at four Toyota facilities and prompted flag carrier Thai Airways to suspend cargo operations, the companies and officials said on Wednesday.
Authorities declared Bangkok a disaster-affected zone after the city received about 320 mm (12.6 inches) of rain over three days — nearly the volume it normally records for the entire month of September.
Impact on Industry
Toyota said the deluge disrupted parts deliveries to its Thai operations, leading its Thai unit to suspend activity at three plants and an additional facility run by its joint venture, Toyota Auto Works. A company spokesperson said Toyota is coordinating closely with suppliers to restore deliveries and resume production as soon as conditions allow.
Thai Airways reported that many employees were unable to travel to work and announced it would stop accepting inbound and outbound cargo from Wednesday through October 6. The airline said cargo services will resume as soon as conditions permit.
Human Toll and Regional Effects
The Interior Ministry reported at least 24 fatalities and said 44 of Thailand's 77 provinces have been affected by flooding, with 32 provinces still experiencing widespread water on Wednesday. Government Spokesperson Ekkapob Pianpises, citing health ministry figures, gave a higher death toll of 40. Officials said they were draining floodwater from Bangkok into canals and other outlets and hoped to restore normal conditions for residents within two to three days.
Transport Disruption
Although Bangkok's main transport gateways remained operational, the floods caused significant disruption at Suvarnabhumi Airport: roughly half of airport staff could not reach work, thousands of bags accumulated, and numerous flights were cancelled.
Note: Companies and authorities say they are assessing damage and working to restore services; timelines may change as flood conditions evolve.
Help us improve.
