BANGKOK, THAILAND – The Thai capital officially entered its hot season amid a prolonged heatwave with temperatures forecast to reach up to 43 degrees Celsius and rising concerns over public health.
Early onset of an extreme summer period
According to the responsible authorities, the hot season had already begun at the end of February and was expected to last until around mid-May. Officials in Bangkok and the northern regions anticipated unusually high temperatures throughout this period.
In parts of the north, peak values of 42 to 43 degrees Celsius were forecast. In Upper Thailand, average daytime highs of 36 to 37 degrees were predicted.
Health risks and official warnings
Official bodies warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat significantly increased the risk of heatstroke. Particularly vulnerable groups such as older people, those with pre-existing conditions and children were considered highly at risk by specialists.
“A sustained strain from extreme heat markedly raises the danger of heatstroke.”
said unnamed officials, health authorities.
Experts stressed that the combination of high temperatures and humidity could further burden the cardiovascular systems of people in at-risk groups. Authorities urged residents to limit outdoor activities during peak heat and to stay hydrated.
Pressure on workers and commuters
The intense heat, occasionally interrupted by thunderstorms, posed a major challenge for people working outdoors. According to the authorities, they were exposed to high thermal stress over long periods.
Commuters relying on public transport also faced sustained heat, especially in crowded stations and vehicles. Officials highlighted that daily exposure during rush hours added to cumulative health risks.
190 cooling centres in the capital
To cushion the immediate impact, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) set up 190 cooling centres across the city. These air-conditioned refuges were designed to offer temporary relief from the heat.
The centres were located in all 50 district offices, public health centres, sports complexes and selected pilot schools. Residents were encouraged to use these facilities, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.
Digital information on locations and opening hours
An online service provided by the BMA informed the public about the exact locations, available services and opening times of the cooling centres. Residents could check which centre was closest to them and when it was accessible.
“People can easily find nearby cooling centres and see when they are open.”
said BMA representatives, city officials.
The digital information was intended to ensure that support reached those most in need, including vulnerable groups with limited mobility. Authorities viewed the service as a key tool in coordinating the city’s short-term heat response.
Long-term measures against urban heat
In addition to the cooling centres, City Hall relied on four key measures to tackle urban heat. These included the development of a heat index monitoring system with early warning alerts.
The plan also aimed to strengthen protection for high-risk groups, improve urban infrastructure to reduce heat absorption and intensify public information campaigns about heat-related dangers. Officials underlined that better communication on risks and preventive behaviour was central to the long-term strategy.
“We are focusing on early warnings, stronger protection for at-risk groups and infrastructure that absorbs less heat.”
said city authorities, Bangkok administration.
The measures were designed to make the capital more resilient to recurring periods of extreme heat. Authorities indicated that the current hot season would serve as an important test for these initiatives.