Battered by the storm: 44 Thai provinces face flash flood threat

Severe weather system triggers flood warnings across Thailand

Heavy rain is forecast across Thailand as dozens of provinces brace for flash floods and landslides caused by intense weather sweeping through the country.

Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings for flash floods and landslides, particularly in central and southern regions, including the capital.

A powerful low-pressure system hovering over the South China Sea is driving the current weather pattern. This system, reinforced by southeasterly winds over the lower northeast and the Gulf of Thailand, along with a moderate southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, is fuelling intense rainfall and turbulent sea conditions.

Officials urge residents, especially those living near mountains, slopes, and water sources, to remain vigilant, as continuous downpours may lead to sudden floods and soil runoff.

Battered by the storm: 44 Thai provinces face flash flood threat | News by Thaiger

The weather forecast from 6am today, September 16, to 6am tomorrow, September 17, is as follows:

Northern Thailand can expect thunderstorms in 40% of the region. Provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Lamphun, Tak, and Phichit will likely experience rain throughout the day. Temperatures are forecast to range from 22 to 25°C in the morning, to highs of 32 to 34°C. Winds will be light and variable, blowing at around 5 to 15 km/h.

In the Northeast, 60% of the area will be affected by storms. Heavy rain is anticipated in Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Ubon Ratchathani. Morning temperatures will range from 22 to 25°C, with daytime highs between 31 and 33°C. Winds will blow from the southeast at speeds of 10 to 15 km/h.

Central Thailand, including Nakhon Sawan, Lopburi, Saraburi, and Ratchaburi, is facing a 70% chance of thunderstorms, with heavy rainfall likely. The region will see temperatures between 23 and 25°C, peaking at 33°C. Winds will be light and variable, making conditions feel humid and unstable.

Eastern provinces, such as Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, are also in the path of intense weather, with a 60% chance of thunderstorms. Temperatures are set to range from 23 to 25°C in the morning, climbing to 34°C. Waves in coastal areas could rise above 2 metres during storm activity.

Battered by the storm: 44 Thai provinces face flash flood threat | News by Thaiger
Photo courtesy of NBT World

The east coast of the South will experience 60% coverage of thunderstorms, with heavy rain predicted in Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Morning lows of 23 to 25°C will give way to highs of up to 34°C. Southwesterly winds between 15 and 30 km/h will generate waves reaching over 2 metres offshore.

Western coastal provinces in the South are bracing for more intense conditions, with 70% of the region expected to receive thunderstorms. Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi will bear the brunt. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24°C in the early hours, reaching up to 32°C later in the day. Winds from Phuket upwards will be stronger, at 15 to 35 km/h, producing sea waves as high as 2 metres or more in storm-hit areas.

In Bangkok and the surrounding areas, 70% of the region is forecast to be affected by storms, including heavy rain. Temperatures will stay between 24 and 25°C in the morning, rising to 33°C by afternoon. Variable winds at 10 to 15 km/h are expected to accompany the rain, according to KhaoSod.

Mariners are advised to navigate with extreme caution. Thunderstorm zones could produce waves exceeding 2 metres in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.

 

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Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid moved to Bangkok in 2020 to pursue further studies in translation. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Hong Kong. Puntid spent 8 years living in Manchester, UK. Before joining The Thaiger, Puntid has been a freelance translator for 2 years. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and listening to music, as well as writing short fiction and poetry.