BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s weather agency warned of extreme heat in the north and thunderstorms with strong gusts in 24 provinces over the next 24 hours.
Heat ridge over the north, storms approaching
The Thai Meteorological Department reported that northern Thailand faced hot to very hot daytime conditions in the 24-hour period to 18:00 on 22 March, driven by a heat low over the upper part of the country. At the same time, southerly and southeasterly winds brought showers and thunderstorms to some areas.
Because of these conditions, the agency cautioned that sudden strong gusts could occur locally. Residents in affected areas were urged to stay alert for rapidly developing storms.
24 provinces in focus – Isaan most at risk
According to meteorologists, the risk of thunderstorms was highest in the northeast, or Isaan, where storms were expected to affect about 30 percent of the region. The provinces highlighted included Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum and Nakhon Ratchasima.
In these areas, rain and gusty winds were both possible. Localised severe weather could therefore disrupt outdoor activities and travel.
North: Up to 40°C, but storms in 20 percent of area
In the northern region, forecast temperatures ranged from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius at night and 33 to 40 degrees during the day. Despite the heat, thunderstorms were expected in around 20 percent of the area.
The weather service identified Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Nan, Uttaradit, Tak, Phitsanulok and Phetchabun as key provinces under this mixed pattern of intense heat and scattered storms. Localised downpours and strong winds could briefly ease the heat but also pose hazards.
Central Thailand and Bangkok: Hot, only isolated rain
For central Thailand, the agency expected hot daytime conditions with isolated thunderstorms affecting about 10 percent of the region. Provinces mentioned included Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi.
In Bangkok and surrounding areas, temperatures were forecast to peak between 33 and 36 degrees Celsius. Local thunderstorms were likewise possible in around 10 percent of the capital’s area.
East: Humid heat and storms along coastal provinces
In eastern Thailand, daytime temperatures were predicted at 33 to 36 degrees Celsius, combined with thunderstorms in about 20 percent of the region. Areas under this forecast included Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat.
Forecasters noted that conditions could become rough along the coast during thunderstorms. Coastal communities and small boats were advised to be cautious when storms developed offshore.
South and seas: Waves around 1 metre, higher in storms
In the south, only isolated thunderstorms were announced. On the eastern coast, this applied particularly to Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan, while on the western coast light rain was expected in parts of Trang and Satun.
Over the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, waves were generally around 1 metre high but could exceed 1 metre in thunderstorm cells. The weather service called on seafarers to avoid storm areas completely to reduce the risk from sudden squalls and higher waves.
Dust and haze – higher burden in north and northeast
Additionally, the agency reported moderate to relatively high levels of dust and haze in the north and northeast. This was attributed to only weak to moderate air circulation over these regions.
As a result, the combination of heat and haze remained a concern, even though the main focus of the warning was on thunderstorms and strong winds. People in affected areas were advised to monitor updates from the national weather service.