BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert, forecasting thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in several areas across the country, with particularly heavy downpours expected in northern regions. Residents in these areas are advised to be cautious of potential hazards from intense rain, which could lead to flash floods and sudden water runoff, especially in low-lying and mountainous regions near waterways.
The weather patterns are being influenced by a monsoon trough stretching over northern Thailand and northeastern Thailand, extending into a low-pressure system in northern Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin. Additionally, a moderate southwest monsoon is affecting the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the upper Gulf of Thailand, while a strong low-pressure system is covering northern Myanmar. These conditions will result in widespread thunderstorms, heavy rain in some areas, and very heavy rain in the north.
The Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will experience moderate wind and waves, with waves reaching 1-2 meters in height and exceeding 2 meters during thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to proceed with caution and avoid sailing in stormy areas.
Between September 14-16, the monsoon trough is expected to shift over northern, central, and northeastern Thailand, while the southwest monsoon will intensify over the upper Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand. This shift will result in increased rainfall and heavy to very heavy showers in some areas. Waves in the Andaman Sea will rise to 2-3 meters, and in thunderstorm zones, waves may exceed 3 meters. The upper Gulf of Thailand will also see waves up to 2 meters high, with higher waves in stormy areas.
In Bangkok and its vicinity, thunderstorms are expected to cover 60% of the area, with temperatures ranging from a low of 27-28°C to a high of 34-35°C. (Photo – Chiang Rai severe flooding on Sep 10)
