Thirty-six provinces set to be pummelled by heavy rain and intense thunderstorms, Bangkok expected to take a significant hit
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for widespread thunderstorms across 36 provinces in Thailand, driven by a low-pressure system over northern Laos and northern Vietnam, combined with the prevailing southwest monsoon.
In the Central Plain, thunderstorms will cover 40% of the area, mostly impacting Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Ayutthaya, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon. Residents are advised to be cautious of potential hazards from the thunderstorms. Bangkok is expected to face heavy rain covering 60% of its area.
In the East, thunderstorms will affect 60% of the area, primarily Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Seas are expected to be around 1 metre, and over 2 metres in storm-affected areas. In the South (East Coast) and South (West Coast), seas are also expected to be around 1 metre, and over 2 metres in storm-affected areas.
Mariners in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand should take specific safety precautions during thunderstorms. This includes avoiding sailing in or near areas experiencing thunderstorms to prevent exposure to sudden severe weather. Authorities strongly advise steering clear of storm-affected zones.
Mariners are also urged to exercise extreme caution navigating in moderate to rough seas, as waves generally range from 1 to 2 meters but can exceed 2 meters in stormy areas, increasing the risk of capsizing or loss of control. It is essential to be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including sudden heavy rain, strong winds, and localized flooding, which may impair visibility and vessel handling.
Using updated weather forecasts and warnings from the Thai Meteorological Department to plan routes, avoid hazardous areas, and safely anchor or dock when necessary is crucial. Additionally, ensuring all safety and communication equipment is functional to respond promptly to emergencies or calls for assistance amid worsening conditions is vital.
Given the ongoing southwest monsoon and active low-pressure system, these precautions are critical for safe maritime operations in these waters until conditions stabilize. Stay informed and stay safe during the ongoing weather events in Thailand.
[1] Thai Meteorological Department (2023). Thunderstorm Warning for 36 Provinces. [online] Available at: https://www.tmd.go.th/th/news/120952
[2] Bangkok Post (2023). Thunderstorms to Hit 36 Provinces. [online] Available at: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2067225/thunderstorms-to-hit-36-provinces
[3] The Nation (2023). Severe Weather Alert for 36 Provinces. [online] Available at: https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30411558
[4] Krungthep Turakij (2023). Thunderstorms and High Seas Warnings. [online] Available at: https://www.krungthepturakij. th/breakingnews/news_details.jsp?newsid=381303
[5] Channel 7 News (2023). Thunderstorms Across 36 Provinces. [online] Available at: https://www.channel7.co.th/breakingnews/2023/05/20/thunderstorms-across-36-provinces/20128023
- Due to the weather-forecasting by the Thai Meteorological Department, mariners in the affected areas should use updated weather forecasts and warnings to avoid sailing near thunderstorms, prepare for rapidly changing conditions, and ensure safety and communication equipment is functional.
- In addition to the widespread thunderstorms across 36 provinces, the Thai Meteorological Department's weather-forecasting also indicates that seas can be expected to exceed 2 meters in storm-affected areas, making it crucial for mariners to take precautions and avoid dangerous zones to ensure their safety during the ongoing weather events.
