Thailand braces for heavy rain and floods as Typhoon Yagi nears

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued its seventh warning about Typhoon Yagi. Northern and northeastern Thailand are expected to experience heavy rain and strong winds, with potential flash floods and landslides. Coastal areas face high waves, urging caution for all residents.

Today, September 5, the TMD announced Typhoon Yagi’s seventh warning (166/2024). At 4am, the typhoon was positioned over the upper South China Sea, centred at latitude 19.2°N and longitude 116.0°E, with maximum sustained winds near the centre of approximately 185 kilometres per hour. The storm is slowly moving westward.

Forecasts predict that Typhoon Yagi will pass over Hainan Island, China, and reach northern Vietnam between tomorrow and Saturday, September 7. Subsequently, it is expected to weaken gradually. This weather pattern will result in heavy rainfall and strong winds in the northern and upper northeastern regions of Thailand from tomorrow through the day after tomorrow.

Meanwhile, a strong southwest monsoon is covering the Andaman Sea, the southern region, and the Gulf of Thailand. This condition will bring heavy rain to certain areas of Thailand, particularly the eastern and southwestern southern regions, over the next two days.

Residents in these areas are advised to be cautious of heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to sudden flooding and flash floods. Areas at risk include foothills near watercourses and low-lying regions.

The Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will experience relatively strong winds, with waves reaching heights of 3 to 3 metres and even higher than 3 metres in thunderstorms. The lower Gulf of Thailand will see waves of 1 to 2 metres, with higher waves in thunderstorm areas.

Residents living in these regions should exercise caution, and avoid sailing in stormy areas, and small boats in the Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand should stay ashore until September 8, reported KhaoSod.

The public is encouraged to follow updates from the TMD, which can be accessed through their website or by calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, available 24 hours a day. The next announcement will be issued today at 11am.