Thailand Braces for Four Days of Heavy Rain and Flash Floods
Thailand's meteorological agency warns of four days of heavy rain and flash floods from September 17-20, with northern regions affected first and southern areas including Phuket and Surat Thani impacted by September 18.
The Meteorological Department issued its fourth warning on September 16, 2025, regarding heavy to very heavy rain across Thailand and strong winds in the Andaman Sea from September 17-20. The northern and northeastern regions will experience impacts first on September 17, with central, eastern, and southern areas affected from September 18 onward. A high-pressure system and cold air mass from China will push the monsoon trough southward over lower central Thailand, the east, and upper southern regions, while strengthening southwest winds over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.
The public is warned to exercise caution against heavy rainfall and accumulated water that may cause sudden flash floods and flash flows, especially in hillside areas near waterways and low-lying basins. Travel through areas prone to repeated flooding should be avoided, particularly low-lying zones that may experience short-term inundation. Waves in the Andaman Sea are moderately strong at 2-3 meters, exceeding 3 meters in thunderstorm zones. Fishermen in the Gulf and Andaman Sea should navigate carefully and avoid thunderstorm areas. Small boats in the Andaman Sea should refrain from sailing between September 17-20.
Affected provinces on September 17 include Uttaradit, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun in the north; Loei in the northeast; and Ranong and Phang Nga in the south. On September 18, heavily affected southern provinces include Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Residents should plan activities carefully and monitor updates from the Meteorological Department via www.tmd.go.th or phone 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182.
