Thailand braces for thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) urged residents in the North, East, and central regions of Thailand to be prepared for thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail over the coming days.

A moderate high-pressure system from China is moving over the northeast and eastern parts of Thailand and the South China Sea, causing southerly and southeasterly winds that bring moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea to the upper parts of Thailand. The TMD forecasted thunderstorms and gusty winds in the affected regions, with hail and lightning also possible, Pattaya News reported.

The TMD urged people in the affected areas to take precautions against the potential dangers of summer thunderstorms, including avoiding open spaces, staying away from large trees, and avoiding buildings and signs that are not structurally sound. Farmers are also advised to take measures to protect crops and livestock from potential damage.

The provinces likely to be affected by the thunderstorms include Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun in the Northern Region, Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Lopburi, Saraburi, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi in the Central Region, and Nakhon Nayok and Prachinburi in the Eastern Region. Even Bangkok could see some storms this week during Songkran.

This news of thunderstorms comes after last week’s scorching temperatures in Thailand.

Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, permanent secretary for public health, warned that the intense summer heat could affect people’s health, especially children, the elderly, and those with underlying ailments.

Outdoor workers are at risk of dehydration caused by excessive perspiration and heat exhaustion. The TMD has recorded high temperatures in many places, with highs of 40.6 degrees Celsius in Phetchabun, 41.5C in Si Sa Ket, 49.4C in the Laem Chabang area of Chon Buri, and 47.9C in Phuket.

It is important to note that temperatures for record-keeping purposes are taken in the shade, but the heat index or readings in the sun can easily reach 50C in Thailand’s hot season.

The highest temperature officially recorded in the country was 44.6C, in the Meuang district of Mae Hong Son on April 28, 2016.

The heat index in Bang Na on Wednesday reached 45.5C, making it the country’s second hottest spot, after Chon Buri which registered 45.8C. There was also no escaping the sweltering conditions in Phangnga (43.3C), Tak (41C), and Si Sa Ket (38.4C).

April is typically the hottest month of the year in Thailand, and with the forecast of thunderstorms, residents should take appropriate measures to stay safe during this period of unpredictable weather.