Thailand declares two-day holiday in Bangkok amid severe flooding

Thailand has declared Sept. 28 and 29 special holidays for government workers in Bangkok and three neighboring provinces to reduce travel and ease traffic amid severe flooding. Nearly 300 millimeters of rain fell over 48 hours, inundating major roads and stranding vehicles and some residents; rainfall eased Sunday, but flooding remained in parts of the capital. Officials said they were preparing shelters and relief supplies and directing local authorities to monitor conditions and deploy emergency resources. The holidays raised questions about a court proceeding over ballots used in February’s election, which could put the results in doubt, but one report said the court would deliver its scheduled ruling Monday despite the holiday.