Bangkok: Thailand is currently experiencing widespread thunderstorms, with heavy rainfall affecting several regions. The Meteorological Department has reported that the Northeastern, Central, and Metropolitan Regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity, as well as the Eastern and Southern regions, will continue to see heavy rain in some areas, with thunderstorms expected in about 70% of the region.
According to Thai News Agency, the 24-hour weather forecast indicates that the heavy rain is due to a monsoon trough passing through the Central, Upper Southern, and Eastern regions, which is linked to a low-pressure area off the coast of lower Vietnam. The region is under the influence of southeasterly winds over the lower Northeastern, Eastern, and Upper Gulf of Thailand, and a moderate southwesterly monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, the Southern region, and the Gulf of Thailand. Residents are advised to prepare for potential flash floods and landslides, particularly in hillsides near waterways and lowlands.
For maritime conditions, the upper Andaman Sea is expected to have waves 1-2 meters high. In the lower Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, wave heights are anticipated to be approximately 1 meter, but could exceed 2 meters during thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy areas.
The regional weather forecast indicates significant rainfall in various parts of Thailand. In Bangkok and surrounding areas, thunderstorms will cover 70% of the area with heavy rain expected; temperatures will range from 25-33 degrees Celsius, with variable winds at 10-15 km/h. The Northern Region will see thunderstorms over 40% of its area, predominantly affecting provinces such as Mae Hong Son and Lampang, with temperatures between 22-34 degrees Celsius.
In the Northeastern region, 60% of the area will experience thunderstorms, with heavy rain in select provinces like Chaiyaphum and Khon Kaen. The Central and Eastern regions are also anticipated to face thunderstorms in 70% of their areas, with heavy rain expected in several provinces including Lop Buri and Chon Buri.
In the South, both the East and West Coasts will see thunderstorms affecting 70% of the area. The East Coast, including provinces such as Phetchaburi and Surat Thani, is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rain with southwesterly winds at 15-30 km/hr. The West Coast, including provinces like Phang Nga and Krabi, will also see heavy rain, with wave heights reaching over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.