Thailand is currently grappling with intense rainfall as the monsoon season sweeps across the country, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issuing warnings for 41 provinces, including the capital, Bangkok. Residents are advised to stay alert as up to 70% of Bangkok is expected to experience heavy downpours, raising concerns over potential flooding and other hazards.
The eastern provinces are particularly affected, with Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chanthaburi, and Trat listed as high-risk areas. The severe weather is driven by a moderate southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, along with a low-pressure system stretching over northern Laos and northern Vietnam.
TMD predicts that the heavy rain will persist into tomorrow, August 23, impacting 42 provinces, with Bangkok expecting 60% coverage. Coastal waters are also being affected, with waves in the upper Andaman Sea reaching up to 2 metres, while the lower Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand experience waves around 1 metre. Mariners are urged to exercise caution in stormy areas.
Northern Thailand: Thunderstorms and Flood Warnings
In the north, provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, and Nan will see thunderstorms covering 60% of the region, alongside heavy rainfall. Temperatures are expected to range from 23°C to 35°C, accompanied by southwest winds of 10–15 km/h. Local authorities have advised residents to monitor weather alerts closely, as the risk of flash floods and landslides rises with continuous rain.
Similarly, northeastern provinces, including Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, and Ubon Ratchathani, are set to experience heavy thunderstorms in 60% of the region, with temperatures between 22°C and 34°C. The southwest winds are expected to reach speeds of 10–20 km/h, potentially worsening flooding in low-lying areas.
Central Thailand, including Uthai Thani, Suphan Buri, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is expected to face thunderstorms over 70% of its area, with heavy rainfall causing potential disruptions to traffic and daily routines. Temperatures will range between 24°C and 35°C, with winds blowing from the southwest at 10–20 km/h.
Eastern and Southern Thailand: Coastal Storms Intensify
The eastern coastal provinces, such as Chon Buri, Rayong, and Trat, will see thunderstorms across 70% of the region, with waves rising over 2 metres in storm-prone areas. Southern Thailand’s east coast, including Songkhla, Pattani, and Narathiwat, faces similar conditions, while the west coast, including Phuket, Phang Nga, and Ranong, experiences heavy rainfall and winds of up to 35 km/h.
Bangkok and surrounding areas are bracing for thunderstorms covering 70% of the city, with heavy rainfall expected in the afternoon and evening. Temperatures will range from 23°C to 35°C, with southwest winds at 10–20 km/h. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially in low-lying districts prone to flooding.
Authorities continue to emphasise that locals should follow official warnings, avoid venturing into stormy seas, and prepare for potential flood emergencies. The ongoing monsoon is expected to persist for the coming days, highlighting the need for heightened awareness across Thailand.