BANGKOK, Thailand – The Meteorological Department of Thailand has issued a warning regarding a tropical depression in the South China Sea, which is expected to intensify into a tropical storm. The storm is forecasted to make landfall in central Vietnam between September 20-21, potentially causing heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds across Thailand from September 20 to 23.
Korrawi Sittichiwaphak, Director-General of the Meteorological Department, signed the first official warning, stating that as of 10:00 AM on September 17, the tropical depression was located in the northern South China Sea at 17.5°N latitude, moving at a speed of 3 km/h. It is likely to strengthen into a tropical storm and make landfall in Vietnam before weakening as it approaches Thailand.
During the period of September 20-23, increased rainfall and heavy storms are expected in various parts of Thailand, especially in the North, Northeast, Central, and Bangkok Metropolitan areas. The eastern and southern regions are likely to experience the most intense weather conditions. Additionally, strong southwest monsoon winds will affect the Andaman Sea, the South, and the Gulf of Thailand, causing rough seas with waves reaching 2-4 meters in height. Thunderstorm areas may see waves higher than 4 meters.
Meanwhile, waves in the lower Gulf of Thailand are expected to reach 2 meters, with storm areas seeing waves higher than 3 meters. Fishermen and sailors are urged to exercise caution, avoid navigating in stormy areas, and refrain from leaving the shore.
Somkuan Tonjan, Director of the Weather Forecast Division, mentioned that there is a possibility of the storm moving into Thailand via the northeastern provinces of Nong Khai and Nakhon Phanom. The incoming cold air mass from China may weaken the storm to a low-pressure system as it enters Thailand, but the country will still experience heavy rainfall and strong winds from the storm’s outer bands.
Additionally, Tropical Storm “Pulasan,” the 14th named storm in the Pacific Ocean, will not affect Thailand. Named by Malaysia, Pulasan is moving toward China and will not influence Thailand’s weather.
The Meteorological Department continues to closely monitor storm developments and advises the public to follow updates through its website (http://www.tmd.go.th) or contact 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182 for around-the-clock updates. (TNA)
