BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s Meteorological Department warned of summer storms in 44 provinces, with severe weather expected to continue until 20 April.
Weather warning in force until 20 April
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued weather warning announcement No. 11 on summer storms in Upper Thailand on 19 April 2569 of the Buddhist calendar. According to the notice, the impacts were expected to last until 20 April and affect several regions, especially the north, northeast and east.
Thunderstorms with strong winds, isolated hail and heavy rain in some areas were forecast. The agency also warned that there could be local lightning strikes.
Specific weather hazards and causes
The TMD expected thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds, with hail in some places and heavy rainfall in certain areas. It stated that lightning could occur locally and issued a clear warning against staying in dangerous locations.
As the main cause, the weather service cited southern and southeastern winds bringing moist air from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea. At the same time, hot to very hot conditions over Thailand were said to favour the development of strong thunderstorms.
Safety advice for residents and travellers
People in Upper Thailand were advised to avoid risks from summer storms and not remain in open areas. The TMD further recommended staying away from large trees, unstable structures and unsecured advertising signs.
The authority called on both residents and travellers to take the warnings seriously until the end of the announced period. It emphasised that exposure to hazardous locations during thunderstorms could increase the risk of injury.
Guidance for farmers and health protection
Farmers were urged to stabilise fruit trees and prepare measures to prevent damage to crops and livestock. The agency highlighted that secure structures and supports could reduce potential losses.
It also recommended that people pay particular attention to their health during this phase of changeable weather. Sudden shifts between heat and storms could pose additional strain, especially for vulnerable groups.
Affected provinces in the north
In the north, the notice listed Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok and Phetchabun as affected provinces. Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok and Phetchabun were mentioned again in the communication.
This repetition underlined what the TMD described as a continuing level of risk in these areas. Residents there were asked to be particularly cautious during the warning period.
Affected provinces in the northeast
For the northeast, the weather service named Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima and Buri Ram. Additional or repeated listings included Kalasin, Mukdahan, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Surin, Si Sa Ket and Ubon Ratchathani.
The inclusion of further provinces indicated that large parts of Northeastern Thailand were under the summer storm alert. Authorities pointed out that strong winds and heavy showers could occur suddenly in these regions.
Central region and Bangkok on alert
In Central Thailand, Lopburi, Saraburi and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya were named, along with Bangkok and its surrounding areas. Another list in the notice added Nakhon Sawan, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Nakhon Pathom and Samut Sakhon.
This meant that both inner-central provinces and the wider Bangkok metropolitan area were covered by the warning. Residents and commuters were urged to follow updates from the TMD during the period of unstable weather.
Affected provinces in eastern Thailand
In the east, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri and Sa Kaeo were initially cited as affected provinces. The authority additionally listed Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat.
Later in the communication, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi and Trat were mentioned again. This repetition emphasised the persistent risk of thunderstorms and strong winds in eastern coastal and inland areas.
Staying informed through TMD channels
The population was urged to continue following official announcements from the Meteorological Department.
“The public should keep monitoring the official announcements of the Meteorological Department.”
said the Thai Meteorological Department, referring to its information channels.
According to the notice, information was available via the website http://www.tmd.go.th and by telephone on 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, which operated 24 hours a day. The TMD stated that these channels would provide regular updates on the evolving weather situation.