Late onset of Thai summer predicted with extreme heat
The onset of summer in Thailand is set to be late this month, as projected by the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD). The upcoming months of March and April are forecasted to experience extreme heat, with temperatures potentially soaring as high as 43-45°C in certain provinces.
According to the department, the latter part of the week will witness a surge in temperatures across the upper regions of the country, except the peak areas in the upper north and northeast. The lower north, northeast, the central plain inclusive of Greater Bangkok, and the east are expected to experience a build-up of heat, marking the official start of summer towards the end of the month.
During this week, the peak daily temperatures, which are expected to hover around 35-38°C, could be experienced around 4pm, with relief only expected during periods of rain, said a TMD spokesperson.
“This summer, the weather will be hot, and extremely hot in many areas. The highest temperatures could reach 43-45°C in some provinces.”
Such extreme heat is predicted to be 1-2°C higher than the previous year and is anticipated to occur during March and April, reported Bangkok Post.
The TMD forecasts this year to be hotter by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius compared to the previous year. The five provinces expected to be hardest hit are Mae Hong Son, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, and Udon Thani.
A recent release from the Thai Weather Forecasting page highlighted weather conditions for the week of February 19 to February 25, specifically at 1pm each day. The charts showed a consistent trend into the red to black zones, symbolising intense heat. During such hot conditions, the public is advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak sun hours and to stay hydrated, reported KhaoSod.
While many are already feeling the increased heat, this transition period at the end of the cool season typically brings variable weather, including possible rainfall in some regions next week.
