Thailand Braces for Flash Floods as Heavy Rains Hit 55 Provinces
Thailand's meteorology department has issued its highest alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall across 55 provinces through September 20, with flash floods expected in southern regions and foothill areas.
At 5 p.m. on September 18, 2569, the Thai Meteorology Department issued Alert No. 8 (212/2569) concerning heavy to very heavy rainfall across Thailand and strong winds in the Andaman Sea, effective September 18–20. The alert forecasts heavy rainfall in many areas, with very heavy downpours expected in parts of the south, caused by a high-pressure system and cold air mass from China moving across the upper north and upper northeast, pushing the monsoon trough down across central, eastern, and upper southern regions. The southwest monsoon is also intensifying over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.
The department urges the public to be cautious of dangers from heavy rainfall and accumulated water that may cause flash floods and flash flooding, especially in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying zones. People are advised to avoid routes prone to repeated flooding, particularly low-lying areas where water may pool briefly. Waves in the Andaman Sea are expected to be fairly strong, reaching 2–3 meters, with heights exceeding 3 meters in thunderstorm areas. Fishermen in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea should navigate carefully and avoid thunderstorm zones. Small boats in the Andaman Sea should remain ashore during September 18–20.
The public is urged to plan activities and travel carefully during this period and monitor updates from the Meteorology Department via its website at http://www.tmd.go.th or by calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, available 24 hours daily. The next alert will be issued on September 19, 2569, at 5 a.m.
