Severe Storms Threaten Northern and Northeastern Thailand
Thailand is bracing for widespread severe weather, with thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall expected across much of the country, particularly in the north and northeast. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings for 54 provinces, urging residents to take precautions against flash floods and potential damage.
The approaching storms are the result of a combination of factors, including a high-pressure system from China extending over the eastern part of Northeast Thailand and the South China Sea, coupled with a westerly trough moving across the North and Northeast. These conditions are creating an unstable atmosphere, ripe for the development of intense thunderstorms.
The forecast for the next 24 to 48 hours predicts that 60% of the northern region will experience thunderstorms, with heavy rainfall anticipated in provinces including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet. Temperatures in the north are expected to range from 19°C to 36°C, with southwesterly winds between 10 and 20 kilometers per hour.
The northeast is also facing a significant threat, with thunderstorms expected in 40% of the area. Heavy rainfall is particularly likely in Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom. Temperatures in the northeast will range from 24°C to 36°C, with winds blowing at 10 to 20 kilometers per hour.
Central Thailand will experience hot weather during the day, with a 30% chance of thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and hail, particularly in provinces like Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Lopburi, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi. Temperatures will range from 22°C to 35°C, with southerly winds at 10 to 20 kilometers per hour.
The eastern region is also under alert, with a 40% chance of thunderstorms and strong winds in provinces including Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 23°C to 36°C, with southeasterly winds at 10 to 30 kilometers per hour. Waves in the Gulf of Thailand are expected to be around 1 meter high, potentially exceeding 2 meters during thunderstorms.
Southern Thailand will see scattered showers, with easterly and southeasterly winds prevailing over the Gulf of Thailand, the South, and the Andaman Sea. Waves in the Andaman Sea are expected to be 1 to 2 meters high, potentially exceeding 2 meters during thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to exercise caution.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid outdoor activities during the storms, seeking shelter away from open areas, large trees, and unsecured structures. Farmers are advised to reinforce their crops and protect livestock. The public is also reminded to stay informed about changing weather conditions and to prioritize their health.
In addition to the immediate threat of severe weather, the TMD notes that dust and smoke levels are currently moderate to high across much of northern Thailand, but are expected to remain stable or decrease due to moderate air circulation and the possibility of rainfall in some areas.
The forecast extends through March 2nd, with continued risks of summer storms and gusty winds. The TMD advises people in affected areas to remain vigilant and prepared for potentially hazardous conditions.
