Rain check: Chiang Mai braces for possible downpour deluge

Chiang Mai residents are on high alert due to heavy rainfall, raising fears of potential flooding. The Northern Meteorological Centre warned locals to be cautious of severe weather conditions, including flash floods and landslides.

Heavy rain has been pouring on Chiang Mai since early morning, showing no signs of easing. The continuous thunderstorms and lightning have added to the residents’ concerns.

While the rain has helped clear the city of dust and mud from the roads, there are growing worries about the likelihood of flooding. The persistent rain has caused fears that the drainage systems might become clogged with debris, leading to waterlogging.

Sukrit Kerdsang, Director of the Northern Meteorological Centre, issued the first official weather advisory (No. 110/2024) regarding the unstable weather in the northern region. His announcement highlighted that from October 19 to 21, a high-pressure system or cold air mass from China is expected to spread over upper northern Thailand, upper northeastern Thailand, and the South China Sea.

This weather pattern will bring easterly and southeasterly winds carrying moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand over northern Thailand, resulting in increased thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, along with strong winds in some areas.

“Residents are advised to be cautious of thunderstorms, strong winds, and heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and landslides, particularly in hilly areas, near waterways, and low-lying regions. It is best to avoid open spaces, large trees, and unstable billboards. Health precautions are also recommended due to the changing weather conditions,” Sukrit stated.

The announcement was made at 6am today, October 17, as the weather conditions continue to be unpredictable. The advisory urged the public to stay informed via the Northern Meteorological Centre’s website or contact number 053-277919 for updates, reported KhaoSod.