Thailand ‘rains’ on its own parade as monsoons threaten
Thailand is bracing itself for a turbulent time as foreboding monsoons and heavy rain are set to hit 11 provinces, bringing the threat of flash floods and landslides. Adding a chill to the mix, temperatures are predicted to plunge in the northern region. Buckle up; it’s going to be a wild-weather ride.
The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) rang the alarm bells as a fresh wave of moderate to strong high-pressure systems rolled in from China, covering northeastern Thailand and the South China Sea.
This weather pattern is spreading its icy grip over the northern, central, and eastern regions, including Bangkok, leading to cooler temperatures and stiff winds. The mercury in the northeast is set to drop by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, while the northern and central areas, along with Bangkok, will see a decline of 1 to 3 degrees.
A word to the wise: keep an eye on your health as these chillier conditions take hold, and be mindful of any fire hazards triggered by the dry, windy weather.
Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon is roaring through the Gulf of Thailand and the southern regions, are expected to gather strength. A potent low-pressure system in the lower South China Sea is on track to sweep across the lower Gulf of Thailand into Malaysia, then onto the lower Andaman Sea.
The southern part of Thailand should brace for a deluge, with heavy to very heavy rainfall predicted. Sudden floods and landslides could strike, especially in hilly terrains near waterways.
Gulf conditions
The Gulf of Thailand isn’t escaping the chaos either, with seas forecasted to turn rough. In the upper Gulf, expect waves climbing to 2 metres high, with storm surges surmounting that figure. The lower Gulf faces even fiercer conditions, with waves swelling between 2 and 3 metres, topping 3 metres during storms. Mariners should sail cautiously, steering clear of thunderstorms, while small boats are advised to remain docked until November 30.
The air quality news is a silver lining, with upper regions boasting low levels of dust and haze thanks to moderate winds spiriting away any pollutants. Here’s what’s in store for you from 6am today to 6am tomorrow:
Northern region: Cool mornings await with a dip of 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 19 to 23 degrees Celsius, peaking at 31 to 33 degrees. On the mountain tops, wrap up warm as it gets colder, with minimums between 8 and 15 degrees. Northeasterly winds will usher in at 10 to 20 km/h.
Northeast Thailand: Expect cool mornings with temperatures diving by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius. Minimums will sit between 19 to 23 degrees, topping out at 30 to 32 degrees. Mountains will chill further, with a range of 12 to 15 degrees. Winds will gust at 10 to 30 km/h.
Central Thailand: Partially cloudy skies with a temperature dip of 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. Minimums will be between 23 to 25 degrees, soaring to 32 to 35 degrees. Northeasterly winds will blow at 10 to 25 km/h.
Eastern Region: Light rain lurking with temperatures slipping by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. Minimums will be 23 to 26 degrees, hitting highs of 32 to 34 degrees. Expect winds at 15 to 35 km/h and sea waves reaching 1 to 2 metres, with offshore height hitting approximately 2 metres.
Heavy downpours
Southern east coast: 70% chance of thundery outbreaks with heavy downpours expected in places like Chumphon and Surat Thani. Minimums will be from 23 to 26 degrees, with highs of 27 to 33 degrees and what will feel like constant rain. Expect winds at speeds of 20 to 35 km/h, and seas around 2 metres, rising higher during storms.
Southern West Coast: A 60% chance of thunderstorms, with heavy rain in pockets such as Krabi. Minimums between 24 and 25 degrees and peaks from 28 to 32 degrees. Winds will range from 15 to 35 km/h. Telephone your loved ones because sea waves are expected to reach about 1 metre, rising to 2 metres offshore.
Bangkok and Vicinity: Partly cloudy conditions with temperatures falling by 1 to 2 degrees. Expect minimums from 24 to 26 degrees, with maximums hitting 32 to 34 degrees. Northeasterly winds will be on the milder side at 10 to 25 km/h.
Stay weather-wise as Thailand rides this wave of swirling conditions.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Crisis24 reports severe weather warnings in southern Thailand due to a strengthening northeast monsoon, predicting heavy rainfall, potential flooding, landslides, and health risks from waterborne diseases through November 24. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why do high-pressure systems from China affect Thailand’s weather so significantly?
High-pressure systems bring cooler air, affecting temperatures and wind patterns, and impacting weather conditions across regions.
How do monsoon patterns contribute to the risk of landslides in Thailand’s southern regions?
Monsoons bring heavy rainfall, saturating soil in hilly areas, and increasing the risk of landslides due to reduced soil stability.
What if wave conditions in the Gulf of Thailand continue to intensify?
Intensified waves could disrupt maritime activities, posing risks to small boats and potentially leading to coastal erosion.
What measures can communities take to mitigate fire hazards during dry and windy conditions in Thailand?
Communities can implement fire breaks, enforce no-burn policies, and increase public awareness to reduce fire risk.
How does Thailand’s air quality remain unaffected by dust despite strong winds?
Moderate winds enhance air circulation, preventing dust and haze accumulation, and maintaining better air quality.
