BANGKOK, 16 September 2014 – Many parts of Thailand are expected to be battered by heavy rains until Thursday as a consequence of Typhoon Kalmaegi, which is moving towards Vietnam.
According to the latest report from the Meteorological Department, Typhoon Kalmaegi is currently located 600 kilometers east of Hanoi, Vietnam in the South China Sea. After causing devastation in the Philippines, the system is moving towards the west-northwest at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour. It is forecast to sweep across the Chinese island of Hainan very soon before making landfall in northern Vietnam tomorrow.
At the same time, the strong southwest monsoon will continue to hover over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand. Under such circumstances, increased rainfall is predicted nationwide between now and September 18, with scattered showers to be seen in 60-80 percent of the area. Heavy downpours are likely in the North, Northeast and East of the country as well as on the west coast of the South.
People living in the affected areas are encouraged to beware of possible disasters. With 2-3 meter high waves, it is advised that small boats be kept ashore for the time being.
On September 19, the southwest monsoon is expected to begin winding down, allowing the majority of Thailand to enjoy drier conditions, with rain possible in 40-60 percent of the area.
