Bangkok – Tropical Storm Nongfa is heading toward Thailand with full force, bringing torrential rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of flash floods in the northern, northeastern, and central regions of the country. The Thai Meteorological Department issued an official warning on August 30 after the low-pressure system over the South China Sea intensified into a tropical storm.
At 10:00 a.m., the center of the storm was located just about 100 kilometers east of Quang Binh in Vietnam, moving westward at 25 km/h. With sustained wind speeds of 65 km/h, Nongfa is expected to make landfall on the afternoon of August 30, then weaken and continue on as an active low-pressure system across northern Laos into Thailand.
Affected regions brace for the worst
Especially the northeastern provinces must prepare for extreme weather conditions. Nakhon Phanom, Sakon Nakhon, Mukdahan, Bueng Kan, Nong Khai, and Loei are among the most at-risk areas. Starting August 31, the northern and upper central regions will also be affected, including Nan, Phrae, Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Tak.
Authorities are explicitly warning of sudden flash floods and river overflows, especially in mountainous areas and lowland regions. Residents in at-risk areas have been urged to prepare for possible evacuations and secure their valuables.
Southwest monsoon heightens the danger level
The southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand is expected to further intensify, bringing heavy rainfall to the eastern and western southern regions. The navy has issued a warning of wave heights between 2–3 meters in the upper Andaman Sea and upper Gulf, which could exceed 3 meters during thunderstorms.
Small boats have been instructed to remain in port, while coastal residents along the east and west coasts of the upper South should expect storm surges from August 30 through September 2.
Three-Day Forecast:
Where it will be especially critical
On August 30, in addition to the northeastern provinces, parts of the East (Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, Trat) and the South (Chumphon, Phuket, Krabi) are also affected. By September 1, the focus shifts to the northern and central regions, including Ayutthaya and Nakhon Sawan.
The national parks in the affected areas, including the already closed Doi Khun Tan National Park in Lamphun, are expected to remain closed until after the storm. Tourists have been urged to avoid high-risk regions and adjust their travel plans accordingly.