The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall affecting 46 provinces, including the capital city of Bangkok, on May 22. The forecast indicates that approximately 60% of the area will experience significant precipitation, raising concerns about potential flash floods.
Residents in the eastern and western southern regions, particularly in and around Bangkok, should remain vigilant as thunderstorms and heavy rain are anticipated. The ongoing southwest monsoon, which is currently influencing the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, is expected to intensify, leading to increased rainfall in the coming days.
While the sea conditions in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are predicted to be relatively mild, with wave heights around 1 meter, thunderstorms could cause waves to rise above 2 meters. Sailors and those engaging in maritime activities are advised to exercise caution and steer clear of storm-affected areas.
From May 23 to May 27, the rainfall is expected to escalate across the country, with certain regions likely to experience very heavy downpours. This increase in precipitation is attributed to the strengthening of the southwest monsoon and the presence of a monsoon trough over upper Thailand and the southern regions.
Residents in flood-prone areas, particularly those near waterways and foothills, should prepare for possible flash floods and water runoff. It is recommended that individuals in low-lying regions avoid traveling through areas prone to flooding. Farmers are also urged to take preventive measures to protect their crops and livestock from potential damage.
Regional Weather Forecasts
In northern Thailand, thunderstorms are expected to impact 60% of the area, particularly in provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Temperatures are forecasted to range from a low of 23°C to a high of 37°C, with southwest winds blowing at 5 to 15 kilometers per hour.
The northeastern region will see thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area, especially in Loei, Nong Khai, and Udon Thani. Here, temperatures will vary from 23°C to 35°C, with southwest winds at 10 to 20 kilometers per hour.
Central Thailand is also set to experience thunderstorms in 40% of the area, impacting provinces like Nakhon Sawan and Saraburi. The temperature range will be between 24°C and 37°C, with southwest winds blowing at 10 to 20 kilometers per hour.
In the eastern provinces, thunderstorms are expected to cover 60% of the area, with heavy rain likely in Nakhon Nayok and Chon Buri. Temperatures will range from 25°C to 35°C, with winds from the southwest reaching speeds of 10 to 30 kilometers per hour.
The southern region’s east coast will see thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area, particularly in Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat, with temperatures fluctuating between 24°C and 36°C. Meanwhile, the west coast will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in provinces like Phuket and Krabi.
In Bangkok and its surrounding areas, thunderstorms are expected to impact 60% of the region, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 34°C. The southwest wind will blow at 10 to 20 kilometers per hour, contributing to the overall weather conditions that residents should prepare for in the coming days.