Brace for impact: Torrential downpours set to soak Thailand

Thailand is bracing for heavy rainfall as a powerful weather system moves in, raising concerns about flash floods and hazardous conditions. The Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued an urgent warning, with Bangkok and surrounding areas facing a 70% chance of thunderstorms and heavy rain.

A strong southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system in the central region and the Gulf of Tonkin, is expected to bring heavy rain to various parts of the country. This weather pattern is likely to result in accumulated rainfall, increasing the risk of sudden flooding and flash floods, particularly in hillside regions near watercourses and low-lying areas. Residents in these areas are urged to stay vigilant.

The Andaman Sea is forecasted to experience rough conditions, with waves in the upper Andaman Sea reaching 2 to 3 meters and over 3 meters during thunderstorms. In the lower Andaman Sea, waves will be 1 to 2 meters, rising above 2 meters in stormy conditions.

The Gulf of Thailand is expected to see waves around 1 meter high, increasing to 1 to 2 meters offshore, and over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution, avoiding navigation in stormy regions. Those in the upper Andaman Sea should refrain from leaving shore.

Related:  luxury scams in Thailand arrested

Adding to the mix, a strong low-pressure area in the lower Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a depression. It is projected to make landfall in northeastern India and Bangladesh between today and tomorrow, potentially worsening the turbulent weather conditions, according to Pattaya Mail.

In Bangkok and its vicinity, residents should prepare for thunderstorms covering 70% of the area, with heavy rain expected.

Temperatures will range from a minimum of 26 to 27 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 33 to 35 degrees Celsius.

In related news, the TMD has issued a warning for heavy rain, predicting a high probability of rainfall across 80% of the northern and central regions of Thailand, impacting 35 provinces. Bangkok is also expected to experience significant weather conditions, with risks of sudden flooding and forest runoff.