Thailand’s rainy season has officially kicked off, and it’s not pulling any punches. With 52 provinces—including Bangkok—facing heavy rainfall, the country is bracing for potential flash floods and runoff. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings as the southwest monsoon intensifies, bringing widespread thundershowers and elevated sea conditions.
What’s Fueling the Deluge?
The culprit behind this weather upheaval is the strengthening southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and western Thailand, coupled with southeasterly winds sweeping across the Gulf of Thailand. This combination is creating ideal conditions for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across various regions.
Mariners are advised to exercise caution, as sea waves are expected to reach heights of 1 to 2 meters, surging beyond 2 meters during thunderstorms.
Regional Rainfall Forecast
Here’s a breakdown of the expected weather conditions across different regions:
North
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Provinces like Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai are set to experience scattered thundershowers with isolated heavy rains.
Northeast
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Areas including Loei, Khon Kaen, and Ubon Ratchathani can expect similar conditions, with temperatures ranging between 23–25°C.
Central Region (Including Bangkok)
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Cities such as Nakhon Sawan and Ayutthaya are forecasted to have widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy rains. Bangkok faces a 70% chance of rain, raising concerns about urban flooding.
East
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Provinces like Chon Buri and Rayong should prepare for fairly widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy rains.
South (East and West Coasts)
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Regions including Surat Thani and Phuket are on alert for fairly widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy rains, with sea waves potentially exceeding 2 meters during storms.
Rainfall Forecast by Region
| Region | Rain Coverage | Key Provinces | Sea Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| North | 70% | Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son | Inland |
| Northeast | 60% | Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani | Inland |
| Central (incl. BKK) | 60% | Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan | Inland |
| East | 70% | Chon Buri, Rayong | Waves ~1m, >2m in storms |
| South (East Coast) | 70% | Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat | Waves ~1m, >2m in storms |
| South (West Coast) | 60% | Phuket, Krabi | Waves 1–2m, >2m in storms |
Preparing for the Downpour
Residents are urged to stay vigilant, especially in flood-prone areas like low-lying regions and near waterways. Precautions include:
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Avoiding travel during heavy rainfall
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Securing outdoor items that could be swept away
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Keeping emergency kits and essential supplies ready
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Staying updated with official weather advisories
Mariners should avoid venturing out during storms and heed warnings about high sea waves.
Conclusion
Thailand’s entry into the rainy season brings with it significant weather challenges. With heavy rains forecasted across multiple regions, preparedness is key to minimizing risks. Stay informed, take necessary precautions, and prioritize safety during this period of heightened weather activity.