Bangkok: The Meteorological Department has announced that Thailand is set to experience increased rainfall, with heavy downpours expected in certain areas of the lower central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, as well as the eastern and southern regions. Thunderstorms are predicted to affect approximately 60% of Bangkok and its surrounding areas.
According to Thai News Agency, the department forecasts that over the next 24 hours, the country will see an uptick in rainfall. Residents in the lower central region, eastern region, and southern region are advised to be cautious of potential hazards from heavy and accumulated rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and forest runoff, especially in hillside areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Farmers are urged to prepare for possible damage to their crops as a monsoon trough passes through northern Myanmar, northern Laos, and into a low-pressure cell in the central South China Sea. This situation is compounded by a strengthening southwest monsoon affecting the Andaman Sea, lower central region, southern region, eastern region, and the Gulf of Thailand.
The maritime conditions are also expected to worsen, with waves in the Andaman Sea reaching heights of 2-3 meters, and even higher in areas experiencing thunderstorms. Similarly, the Gulf of Thailand is predicted to have waves between 1-2 meters, with increased heights during thunderstorms. Mariners in both seas are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy areas, while small boats in the Andaman Sea are recommended to remain ashore.
The weather forecast details thunderstorms across various regions from 6:00 AM today to 6:00 AM tomorrow. In the northern region, thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area, particularly in provinces like Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. The northeastern region will see thunderstorms in 60% of its area, affecting provinces such as Loei and Nong Khai. Meanwhile, the central region anticipates thunderstorms in 40% of the area with heavy rain in Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi.
In the eastern region, thunderstorms are predicted to occur in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in provinces including Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri. The southern region, both on the east and west coasts, will also experience significant thunderstorm activity, with 60-70% of areas like Chumphon and Ranong affected, along with heavy rain in parts of Ranong and Phang Nga.