Thailand Weather Bureau Warns of Heavy Rain and Flooding
Thailand's meteorological department warns of heavy to very heavy rain across the North, Northeast, Central Plains, and East through August 21, with risks of flash flooding and dangerous seas.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of heavy to very heavy rain in parts of the North, Northeast, Central Plains, and East over the next 24 hours, with risks of flash flooding, forest runoff, and overflowing waterways. A monsoon trough lies across the upper North and upper Northeast, extending towards a strong low-pressure area near China's Hainan Island, while a moderately strong southwest monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand.
Residents in affected areas, particularly foothills, areas near waterways, and low-lying locations, should remain alert for heavy and accumulated rainfall. The North is forecast to see thunderstorms across 80% of the region with very heavy rain possible in Mae Hong Son, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun. The Northeast will experience thunderstorms across 80% of the region with very heavy rain possible in Loei, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom. The Central Plains and East regions are also at risk with 70% coverage of thunderstorms.
Winds and waves are expected to be relatively strong in the upper Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand, with waves forecast at 2–3 metres and potentially exceeding 3 metres during thunderstorms. Mariners in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand are advised to navigate with caution and avoid thunderstorms, with small boats in the upper Andaman Sea advised to remain ashore. The forecast is valid from 6am on 20 August to 6am on 21 August.
