Heavy rain warning issued for 13 Thai provinces, flash flood risk
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for heavy rainfall affecting 13 provinces in the South, with risks of flash floods and forest runoff. Northern Thailand will experience a temperature drop of up to 5 degrees Celsius (°C).
The TMD released its second announcement, highlighting the potential impact of severe weather from tomorrow to November 30. A new wave of cold air from China is expected to cover northern Thailand and the South China Sea.
The northeast monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region will intensify, while a strong low-pressure area in the lower South China Sea is anticipated to move across the lower Gulf of Thailand, Malaysia, and into the lower Andaman Sea.
This weather pattern is likely to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across several areas, including the provinces of Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun.
Residents in these areas are advised to remain vigilant against potential dangers, such as flash floods and sudden forest runoff, particularly in foothill areas, near waterways, and in low-lying regions.
Sea conditions are also expected to worsen, with strong winds causing waves in the upper Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea to reach approximately 2 metres. In areas experiencing thunderstorms, wave heights could exceed 2 metres. The lower Gulf of Thailand may see wave heights of 2 to 3 metres, with even higher waves during thunderstorms, said a TMD spokesperson.
“Seafarers are urged to navigate with caution and to avoid areas experiencing thunderstorms. Small boats in the lower Gulf of Thailand should refrain from leaving the shore during this period.”
In northern and northeastern Thailand, temperatures are expected to fall by 2 to 5°C, bringing chilly to cold weather with strong winds. The central region, including Bangkok and its surrounding areas, as well as the eastern region, will see a temperature decrease of 1 to 3°C.
Residents in these areas are advised to take care of their health due to the dropping temperatures and to remain cautious of fire hazards that may arise from dry and windy conditions, reported KhaoSod.
The TMD also advises the public to stay informed of weather updates through announcements on their website or by contacting them directly via their hotline, available 24 hours. The latest announcement was made earlier today at 5am, with a subsequent update scheduled for 5pm.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Crisis24 highlights severe weather warnings in southern Thailand due to an impending northeast monsoon, forecasting heavy rainfall, flooding risks, and potential health threats from stagnant water and disease outbreaks. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why does the cold air from China affect Thailand’s weather patterns so significantly?
Cold air masses from China can alter Thailand’s temperature and precipitation patterns, intensifying monsoons and causing temperature drops.
How might the intensifying northeast monsoon influence Thailand’s agricultural practices?
Increased rainfall can benefit crops but also poses risks of floods and runoff, disrupting planting and harvest cycles in affected regions.
What if the heavy rainfall patterns continue beyond the forecasted period?
Prolonged rainfall could lead to extensive flooding, impacting infrastructure, agriculture, and displacing communities in vulnerable areas.
How do temperature drops in northern Thailand affect local communities?
Chilly conditions may challenge health and daily life, prompting communities to adapt to warmer clothing and measures against potential fire hazards.
What precautions should seafarers take during worsening sea conditions?
Seafarers should avoid thunderstorms, and navigate cautiously, and small boats should remain ashore during adverse weather for safety.
