BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand is bracing for a week of severe thunderstorms and a marked drop in temperatures across much of the country.
Storms in the northeast, cooler air spreading nationwide
According to Sugunyanee Yavinchan, director-general of the Meteorological Department, the first storms formed in the northeastern provinces of Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram and Nakhon Ratchasima, a largely agricultural part of Isan that frequently faces abrupt weather changes during the dry season.
“Initially, thunderstorms will develop in the upper parts of the country before the weather system spreads further west and south.”
said Yavinchan, adding that the impact will extend over the week to the northern region, the central plains including the greater Bangkok area, and the east.
Behind the rain bands, cooler air is forecast to move into Thailand, bringing strong winds and a noticeable temperature drop. In the northeast, temperatures are expected to fall by 4 to 7 degrees Celsius, while the north, central region and east should see reductions of 2 to 4 degrees. For many areas, this will be the first significant cooling in weeks.
Rough seas in the Gulf and risks for farms and cities
From Wednesday, an official warning for small boats will be in force in the Gulf of Thailand, initially through Sunday. Authorities strongly advise captains to avoid sailing during this period, as the combination of strong winds and high waves could create dangerous conditions, particularly along the southeastern coast.
In major cities such as Bangkok, authorities expect heavy rain and localised flooding, while rural areas in the north may see impacts on farms. Observers warn that a sudden temperature drop could affect rice fields and livestock. The department anticipates unsettled conditions to persist until the weekend, when the weather is expected to gradually stabilise.
“We recommend that all drivers and fishers follow the latest forecasts closely,”
said Yavinchan, as the agency highlighted key risks including severe thunderstorms and gusty winds in the north and northeast, falling temperatures, hazards for small vessels in the Gulf, and the danger posed by falling branches and makeshift structures in stormy conditions.