BANGKOK, THAILAND – Powerful gusts, thunderstorms with lightning and isolated hail were forecast to threaten northern and central Thailand until at least 6 March, prompting the state weather service to urge the public and farmers to take precautions.
Weather service warning
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued its fourth urgent warning of a so‑called “summer storm” affecting upper Thailand. The official order, signed by Sugunyanee Yavinchan, director-general of the agency, described a severe weather situation expected to persist until at least 6 March.
The department said the unstable conditions were being closely monitored and that further advisories would follow if needed as the system evolved over the northern and central provinces. Residents were advised to stay alert to updated forecasts and local announcements.
Affected regions
According to TMD, the storm system was set to reach the northeast (Isan) first before spreading to the North, the Central Plain, the East and the greater Bangkok area. This meant both rural zones with intensive agriculture and densely populated urban centres were in the path of expected thunderstorms and strong winds.
Authorities noted that exposed areas and lightly built structures in these regions were particularly vulnerable. Communities were urged to secure property and plan for sudden weather changes over the coming days.
Meteorological causes
Meteorologists traced the turbulence to a high-pressure system with cold air advancing from China into the northeast of Thailand and the South China Sea. This incoming cold air mass collided with existing warm, humid air over upper Thailand, creating an unstable atmosphere.
At the same time, a westward-oriented trough extended over northern and upper northeastern parts of the country. The combination of these factors produced what the agency described as markedly unstable conditions favourable for severe storms.
Risks to the public
The weather service warned of strong winds and local hail capable of damaging buildings, light structures and other sensitive installations. There was also an elevated risk of lightning, and the department urged people to avoid open areas, large trees and unstable billboards during intense thunderstorms.
“People should not stay in open spaces, near large trees or beside unstable billboards during heavy thunderstorms because of the increased risk of lightning strikes,”
said Sugunyanee Yavinchan, director-general of the Meteorological Department.
Officials emphasised that residents should be prepared for rapid shifts between heat, heavy rain and gusty winds. They advised securing loose objects outdoors and being cautious when travelling during storm periods.
Impact on agriculture
Farmers were asked to reinforce supports for fruit trees and take steps to protect crops and livestock from sudden flooding and hail damage. The authorities warned that rapid changes in heat, intense rainfall and wind could seriously affect harvests across large parts of the North and Northeast.
“The rapid switch between hot conditions, heavy rain and strong winds could significantly harm crops in many northern and northeastern areas,”
said a TMD statement.
Agricultural communities were encouraged to monitor local forecasts and adjust field work where possible to avoid the worst conditions. The department highlighted the need for early action to reduce potential losses.
Health and ongoing monitoring
In view of the quick changes in temperature and humidity, TMD recommended that people pay close attention to their health and prepare for cooler, wetter weather. Vulnerable groups were advised to protect themselves against sudden temperature drops and damp conditions.
Weather experts at the department said they were continuously tracking the development of the system. Further updates would be issued as the situation over the central and northern provinces progressed and new data became available from monitoring stations and satellite observations.