Summer storm alert for 45 Thai provinces including Bangkok

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a severe summer storm warning for 45 provinces, including Bangkok, as strong winds, thunderstorms, hail, and occasional lightning struck at 5am today, March 20. It is the seventh summer storm warning issued by the TMD this year.

A moderate high-pressure system from China extended its reach over northern Thailand and the South China Sea, coupled with easterly and southeasterly winds bringing moisture to the area, leading to the early stages of the summer storm season in Thailand. This weather pattern resulted in thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail in some parts, with the potential for lightning strikes. Following this, temperatures are expected to drop. The Department had previously announced a summer storm warning affecting 62 provinces, with strong winds and hail expected from yesterday to today.

Residents in the affected areas are advised to exercise caution and avoid open spaces, large trees, unstable structures, and billboards due to the potential dangers of summer storms. They should also take care of their health as the weather changes. Farmers are advised to prepare for the protection of their crops and livestock from possible damage.

The provinces expected to be impacted today, include Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun in the north.

In the northeast, the provinces of Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, and Surin are listed.

For the central region, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Lopburi, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram, including Bangkok and its vicinity, are mentioned.

In the south, Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan are noted, reported KhaoSod.

Citizens are urged to stay informed through announcements from the Meteorological Department, which can be accessed online at the department’s website or through their hotline, available 24 hours at 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182. The next update from the TMD is scheduled for 5pm today.