Bangkok: Social media is sharing a warning from the Meteorological Department, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, that Thailand will experience generally hot to very hot weather in mid-April. The warning advises caution regarding "summer storms," characterized by thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail in some areas, as well as possible lightning strikes.
According to Thai News Agency, the "Verify Before Sharing" center has verified information from several agencies related to safety and health, including the Meteorological Department, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, the Department of Climate Change, and the Department of Health. They found that Thailand frequently experiences various types of storms, including summer storms and tropical cyclones. When storms occur, they affect a wide area, causing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas, leading to property damage and posing a danger to people's lives.
For safety reasons, there are guidelines to follow to mitigate the impact of various types of storms. During the summer, some areas may experience thunderstorms with strong winds, lightning, thunder, or hail, which can cause damage to life and property. Therefore, for safety reasons, how should you prepare to cope with "summer storms"?
Firstly, it is advised to continuously monitor weather forecasts and strictly follow all warnings and instructions if a warning is issued. Inspecting your house to ensure it's structurally sound, especially the roof, windows, and vents, is crucial to prevent damage from strong winds. Maintaining the surrounding environment by trimming trees at risk of falling, storing easily blown-off items in secure locations, and removing debris obstructing waterways are also recommended.
Avoid being in open areas during thunderstorms and seek shelter indoors in a sturdy building. If shelter is not available, lie as low as possible, either squatting with your feet together or standing on your tiptoes, to minimize contact with the ground. It is also essential not to seek shelter from storms in dangerous locations such as large trees, billboards, power poles, and unstable structures.
Furthermore, avoiding coastal areas and refraining from marine activities, especially swimming and boating, is advised as the sea is rough and strong currents may cause waves to crash ashore, leading to injury. Avoid using electrical equipment and telephones, and stay away from all objects that conduct electricity, such as wires, metal, water pipes, fences, tractors, and motorcycles.
Lastly, maintaining good health for yourself and your family, especially those at risk or with pre-existing conditions, and preparing essential items in advance of a disaster, such as food, drinking water, clothing, medicine, and flashlights, is crucial. Preparing in advance for potential events can reduce the damage that may occur from thunderstorms.