Preparation Underway for Summer Downpours in Thailand

Upcoming Thunderstorms Across Thailand: Here's What You Need to Know

Brace yourself, Thailand! This April 26 to May 2, thunderstorms, hailstorms, heavy rain, and lightning strikes are about to rock northern and northeastern regions of the country. Here's the lowdown on what's coming your way and some helpful tips to stay safe and secure during these unpredictable weather events.

First off, let's talk about the cause. A moderate high-pressure system from China, hovering over Vietnam and the South China Sea, has triggered the convergence of southeasterly and southwesterly winds over upper Thailand, all under intense heat. The week-long stormy spell will be further fueled by a westerly trough moving up from Myanmar.

In northern and northeastern Thailand from April 28 to May 1, the weather chaos will continue, as unstable conditions persist. After May 1, while storms might ease a tad, expect hot weather and occasional thunderstorms with strong winds to hang around due to continued wind convergence.

Meanwhile, the southern region will get its fair share of action from April 26 to 28, with heavy rain hitting parts of the area thanks to southeasterly and southerly winds across the Gulf of Thailand and westerly winds over the Andaman Sea. Wave heights in the Andaman Sea could reach around 1 metre, soaring over 2 metres in areas hit by thunderstorms. From April 29 to May 2, winds will weaken a bit, but isolated thunderstorms could still churn out waves over 2 metres.

To keep yourself and your loved ones safe during these torrential downpours, the Meteorological Department advises sticking to these tips:

Avoid open areas, large trees, weak structures, and billboards. Half-fallen trees and billboards can land on you like a ton of bricks!
In hilly and low-lying regions, be on the lookout for flash floods and runoff.
If you're in the upper Thailand region, prepare for potential agricultural damage. Farmers should reinforce crops, protect livestock, and have plans set for coping with agricultural disasters.
In the South from April 26 to 27, keep an eye on heavy rainfall and water buildup. Don't forget to stay updated on the weather and monitor your health under these fluctuating conditions.
Follow general safety measures during storms such as seeking shelter, staying hydrated, being cautious of lightning strikes, and having emergency kits on hand.
While driving or commuting, be extra careful during heavy rain and reduced visibility. Try to avoid flooded areas if possible.
Stay safe from the heat while outdoors by staying well-hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and slathering on sunscreen.

So, stay resilient, keep calm, and stay safe, Thailand!

In the upcoming thunderstorms across Thailand from April 26 to May 2, the meteorological department expects significant weather events, including thunderstorms, hailstorms, heavy rain, and lightning strikes, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions.
The convergence of southeasterly and southwesterly winds over upper Thailand, under intense heat and a westerly trough moving up from Myanmar, is the cause of these unpredictable weather events.
To ensure safety, it's essential to follow precautions such as avoiding open areas, large trees, weak structures, and billboards, staying updated on the weather, and having emergency kits on hand.
The country's environmental-science community and the Meteorological Department highlight the importance of taking these precautions to minimize risks and potential disasters, especially for farmers in the upper Thailand region and coastal residents in the south.