Thailand Braces for Storms, Hail, Lightning Through Oct 15

BANGKOK — 9 October 2026, the Thai Meteorological Department forecast unsettled weather across Thailand from 9–15 October, with more rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, hail and lightning, as well as heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas. From 12–15 October, rainfall is expected to decrease in upper Thailand, while the South will continue to experience rain, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas. This is due to another high-pressure system or cold air mass from China spreading over upper Thailand, while a monsoon trough lies across the South. Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon will continue to prevail over the Andaman Sea, the South and the Gulf of Thailand. Waves in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to reach around 1 metre, rising above 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms throughout the period. Precautions: From 9–13 October, people across Thailand are advised to beware of thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, heavy to very heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which could trigger flash floods and forest runoff, particularly on foothills near waterways and in low-lying areas prone to flooding. People should also avoid open areas, large trees and unstable advertising billboards. Boat operators in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea should navigate with caution and avoid sailing in areas experiencing thunderstorms throughout the period. Northern Thailand From 10–11 October 2026, thunderstorms are forecast across 40–60% of the region, with heavy rain and strong winds in some areas, mainly in the lower part of the region. From 12–15 October, thunderstorms are expected across 10–30% of the region, mainly in western areas and the lower part of the region. Easterly winds will prevail at 10–25 km/h. Minimum temperatures will range from 20–25°C, while maximum temperatures will reach 31–35°C. Northeastern Thailand From 9–10 October 2026, thunderstorms are forecast across 30–60% of the region, with heavy rain and strong winds in some areas. From 11–15 October, thunderstorms are expected across 10–20% of the region. Northeasterly winds will prevail at 10–30 km/h. Minimum temperatures will range from 21–26°C, while maximum temperatures will reach 30–35°C. Central Thailand From 10–11 October 2026, thunderstorms are forecast across 60–70% of the region, with heavy to very heavy rain and strong winds in some areas. From 12–15 October, thunderstorms are expected across 20–30% of the region. Easterly winds will prevail at 10–20 km/h. Minimum temperatures will range from 22–27°C, while maximum temperatures will reach 31–36°C. Eastern Thailand From 10–11 October 2026, thunderstorms are forecast across 60–80% of the region, with heavy to very heavy rain and strong winds in some areas. From 12–15 October, thunderstorms are expected across 20–40% of the region. Easterly winds will prevail at 15–30 km/h. Waves will be below 1 metre, rising above 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. Minimum temperatures will range from 23–27°C, while m