Thundershowers, winds, rain, and floods expected in Thailand

The Thai Meteorological Department warns of thundershowers, gusty winds, heavy rain, and floods in Thailand.

In upper Thailand, the department warns of a tropical storm that could bring thundershowers and gusty winds until Monday (May 15). In addition, heavy rains, hailstorms and lightning are forecast in some areas during this period.

People living in upper Thailand have been advised to stay away from large trees and unsecured billboards, while farmers have been told to prepare for crop and livestock damage. Travellers have also been urged to avoid wearing metal accessories and using smartphones in thundershowers.

Meanwhile, the department has also forecast isolated thundershowers and heavy rain in South Thailand until Monday. Thundershowers in the Andaman Sea could cause waves to rise to 2 metres high, or even higher. People in the south have been warned to beware of flash floods and runoffs due to heavy rain. The department has advised vessels to proceed with caution and small ones should remain ashore.

Thailand is prone to natural disasters, including tropical storms, floods and droughts.

Last week, Rangsit University’s Climate Change and Disaster Centre expected storms to potentially impact General Election Day on Sunday, May 14. The centre’s director, Seri Suparatit, mentioned a 30% likelihood of thunderstorms on election day, particularly in the southern parts of Thailand. With the election fast approaching, he recommended that the Election Commission (EC) prepare indoor locations for polling booths to avoid disruptions due to any storm. He also warned that heavy rainfall on General Election Day could damage ballot papers and boxes and cause significant traffic issues.

Last month, a summer storm wreaked havoc on two districts of Thailand’s northeast Nakhon Phanom province. Around 70 houses in That Phanom and Renu Nakhon districts were damaged, according to authorities. In That Phanom district, both Moo 3 and Moo 8 villages of Tambon Phon Phaeng faced heavy showers, strong gusts of wind, and thunderstorms for approximately an hour.