Record 451 blacktip reef sharks spotted in Maya Bay
Capital on alert as heavy downpours hit eastern Bangkok
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AI In-brief25 Sept 15:00
Capital on alert as heavy downpours hit eastern Bangkok
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt declared a high alert, ordering accelerated water drainage operations after heavy overnight rainfall caused significant flooding in eastern districts.
Continuous downpours are expected throughout the day as a low-pressure cell moves over the capital, with an 80% chance of heavy rain predicted for Greater Bangkok.
Eastern Bangkok bore the brunt, with Min Buri recording 99mm of rain, leading to surface flooding on several primary roads and critical water levels in key canals.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is actively pumping water into the Chao Phraya River and diverting flow eastward to mitigate flood risks, while the main Chao Phraya River's levels remain manageable.
AI In-briefToday 09:14
Record 451 blacktip reef sharks spotted in Maya Bay
A record 451 blacktip reef sharks were counted in Maya Bay, marking the highest population since monitoring began in 2023 and signaling a strong ecological recovery following strict tourism controls.
Intensive surveys, utilizing aerial drones and baited remote underwater video systems, confirmed the thriving shark population, with activity peaking at dawn and adults exhibiting potential mating behavior.
The presence of numerous juvenile and newborn sharks in shallow waters solidifies Maya Bay's crucial role as a vital nursery, supported by optimal water quality conditions.
This comprehensive data will guide long-term policymaking to balance biodiversity conservation with sustainable ecotourism in the world-famous bay.