Pattaya hit by floods as Thailand enters rainy season
Pattaya experienced significant flooding in various areas last night, following the official start of Thailand’s rainy season on Monday. The heavy downpour, which lasted for about an hour and was accompanied by strong winds, affected flood-prone locations such as Sukhumvit Road, South Pattaya Road, Pattaya Beach Road, Third Road near the Paniat Chang intersection, Moom Aroi intersection, and the road along the railway.
The torrential rain began around 9.30pm, with flood levels in some areas reaching between 30 centimetres and one metre in height. However, the storm and flooding subsided relatively quickly, thanks to the installation of larger drains that have proven more effective at draining water compared to previous years.
Thailand’s rainy season officially started on Monday, May 22 and is expected to last until mid-October. However, the southern part of the country, particularly the southeast coastal areas, will continue to experience rainfall until mid-January 2024, according to the Meteorological Department.
The Thai Meteorological Department‘s latest weather forecast for the next 24 hours, predicts heavy rainfall and strong winds in several regions due to the influence of the southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system covering parts of upper Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin.
The public is advised to remain cautious and prepare for potential hazards caused by thunderstorms and strong winds, as well as maintain their health as the weather conditions change.
In the Andaman Sea, moderate winds are causing waves ranging from 1 to 2 metres high. In areas affected by thunderstorms, waves can reach heights of over 2 metres. Boat operators in the Andaman Sea are advised to exercise caution and avoid travelling in areas experiencing thunderstorms during this period.
In Bangkok, there is a 40% chance of thunderstorms, with strong winds in some areas, mostly occurring during the afternoon to evening hours. The region will continue to experience hot weather during the daytime. The lowest temperature is expected to be 25-29°C, with the highest being 34-38°C. Southwesterly winds will be blowing at 10-20 km/h.
