Persistent rain has flooded several parts of Thailand’s capital since Thursday afternoon, disrupting traffic and forcing some residents to leave their homes.

Officials said Saturday that rainfall of more than 20 centimeters (7.8 inches) had accumulated in major canals across Bangkok. Floodwaters spread through several parts of the city, particularly central and eastern areas, leaving roads submerged and bringing traffic to a standstill.

Thailand’s Meteorological Department forecast more heavy rain across most parts of the country through Sunday, attributing the conditions to a strong low-pressure system over the central region and increasingly active southwest monsoon winds.

As of Saturday, flooding had affected more than 84,000 people in 21 provinces across Thailand, with the central region among the hardest-hit areas. The government said authorities had issued emergency alerts through the cell-broadcast system to residents in affected locations.

Bangkok experienced heavy downpours throughout much of Friday, with intense rain continuing into Saturday. Images and videos showed major roads under water, while some vehicles were left stranded after drivers were unable to navigate the rising floodwaters.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said heavy rain was likely to continue through Saturday but expressed hope that floodwaters would gradually recede once the rain stopped. He said city authorities were working to drain the accumulated water as quickly as possible.

Authorities established several shelters for residents who had to evacuate their homes. Some government facilities were also opened to provide parking areas for vehicles, officials said.