BANGKOK, THAILAND – A new cold air mass from China drove a sharp temperature drop and severe storms across Thailand, putting large parts of the country on weather alert.
Sharp temperature drop in northern and central regions
From now until 20 December, northern and central areas were expected to turn markedly colder, with temperatures falling by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, and by 3 to 5 degrees in the northeast. A strong high-pressure system funneled icy air from China, bringing frosty nights and early mornings with patches of dense fog.
Authorities warned residents to dress warmly and protect their health, and urged farmers to safeguard their crops. The cooler conditions were forecast to be particularly noticeable overnight and at dawn.
Southern provinces face flooding and landslide risk
While the north cooled, the south endured torrential rain driven by a strong northeasterly monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand. The provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat were singled out for the risk of life-threatening flash floods and landslides.
People living in low-lying areas and along rivers were told to move valuables to safety and remain alert for possible evacuation orders. The prolonged downpours were expected to keep danger levels elevated in the coming days.
High seas and storm warnings for shipping
Maritime authorities raised the alert level for shipping, as waves in the lower Gulf of Thailand built to 2 to 3 meters, and to more than 3 meters during thunderstorms. The Andaman Sea was also forecast to become rough under the same weather pattern.
All seafarers were strongly warned not to put to sea during storms, and small boats were ordered to remain in port.
“The risk is too high,”
said a spokesperson for the port authority, adding that the forces of nature were unpredictable and deadly.
Outlook through next week
From Tuesday, 16 December, to Friday, 19 December, the influence of the cold air mass in the north was expected to ease slightly, bringing somewhat milder but still cool conditions with morning fog. In the south, however, the monsoon rain was set to continue, weakening only slowly and keeping the threat of severe weather in place.
For Bangkok and surrounding areas, forecasters predicted cool mornings with light rain and a temperature drop of 1 to 3 degrees. Residents were advised to prepare for a generally unsettled week of weather.
Authorities urge caution and preparedness
Officials called for maximum caution nationwide and asked people to check their emergency supplies. They also urged the public to stay away from flooded roads and rivers and to avoid unnecessary travel to the affected southern regions.
Authorities recommended that residents follow updated warnings closely as Thailand faced a challenging week of weather, with nature showing its full force and safety remaining the top priority.