BANGKOK, Thailand – A tropical depression located off the northern coast of Vietnam has strengthened into Tropical Storm “Soulik” and is expected to make landfall in Vietnam this evening. The storm is forecasted to impact Thailand from 20-23 September, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall across 76 provinces, with a heightened risk of flash floods and landslides in certain areas.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) confirmed that the tropical depression had intensified into Tropical Storm “Soulik” with a central location approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Quang Tri, Vietnam. The storm is moving westward at a speed of about 30 kilometers per hour, with maximum sustained winds near the center reaching 65 kilometers per hour. The TMD predicts that Soulik will make landfall in central Vietnam tonight before gradually weakening as it moves inland.
Impact on Thailand
The effects of Tropical Storm Soulik are expected to increase rainfall across several regions of Thailand, with some areas experiencing heavy to very heavy downpours. These rains could trigger flash floods and runoff, particularly in areas close to mountains. The Department has warned the public to stay vigilant, especially those living in flood-prone regions and near hillsides, where the risk of landslides is elevated.
Provinces at Risk
According to the Thai Meteorological Department, heavy rainfall is expected in different parts of Thailand over the coming days:
20 September:
Northern Region: Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun.
Northeastern Region: Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani.
Central Region: Nakhon Sawan, Lopburi, Saraburi, Singburi, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, as well as Bangkok and its surrounding areas.
Eastern Region: Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi, and Trat.
Southern Region: Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun.
21-23 September:
Northern Region: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Tak, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun.
Northeastern Region: Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, and Nakhon Ratchasima.
Central Region: Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi, as well as Bangkok and its surrounding areas.
Eastern Region: Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat.
Southern Region: Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi.
Severe Weather Warnings
The strong southwestern monsoon currently covering the Andaman Sea, southern Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand is expected to bring rough seas and strong winds. In the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand, waves are expected to reach heights of 2-4 meters, and in areas with thunderstorms, waves could exceed 4 meters. In the lower Gulf of Thailand, waves are predicted to be around 2 meters, with thunderstorm areas experiencing even higher waves. Mariners are advised to proceed with caution and avoid navigating through stormy areas. Small boats in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand are strongly advised to remain ashore during this period.
Government Response
In response to the incoming storm, the Thai government has activated its disaster response units. Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Chanthararuangthong, also the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, has established a command center at the Meteorological Department to monitor the situation and coordinate with regional weather stations. This setup aims to provide accurate forecasts and timely updates to ensure the safety of the public.
The government has also formed a new committee, known as the “Water, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Response Committee,” to improve coordination between agencies handling natural disasters. Additionally, the Flood and Storm Disaster Relief Operation Center has been established to provide rapid assistance to affected areas. This center will serve as the main hub for communication between government bodies, local authorities, and private organizations to expedite aid delivery and disaster relief efforts.
Ms. Kornrawee Sittichiwapak, Director-General of the Meteorological Department, emphasized that the department has been tracking the storm for several days. An initial public advisory was issued on 17 September, urging citizens and relevant agencies to prepare for potential impacts. While the storm is expected to weaken after making landfall in Vietnam, it will still bring significant rainfall and gusty winds to Thailand’s northern, northeastern, central, and southern regions, including Bangkok.
Public Advisory
The Meteorological Department advises residents in affected areas to closely follow weather updates and take precautionary measures against potential flooding and landslides. Information and updates on Tropical Storm Soulik can be accessed on the department’s official website (http://www.tmd.go.th) or via their hotline numbers: 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, which are available 24 hours a day. (TNA)
