BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s meteorological agency warned that the country faced days of extreme weather, with torrential rain in the south and a new cold spell in the north.
Heavy rain and flood risk in the south
On 13 December, the south of Thailand was expected to see heavy to very heavy rain, including in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Songkhla as well as Ranong, Phang Nga and Krabi. A low-pressure area over the region was blamed for the conditions, with the strengthening northeastern monsoon from 14 to 16 December forecast to bring further intense downpours to the lower south. Authorities issued strong warnings about sudden flooding and landslides, particularly in hilly terrain and along waterways.
Dangerous seas in Gulf and Andaman
Maritime conditions were expected to become extremely hazardous, with wave heights in the lower Gulf of Thailand reaching 2–3 metres, and exceeding 3 metres during thunderstorms. In the Andaman Sea, waves offshore were forecast to rise above 2 metres, and the weather agency urged all seafarers to exercise the utmost caution. Small boats in the lower Gulf were ordered to remain onshore and avoid any storm-affected areas.
Cold air mass to hit the north
While the south struggled with flooding rain, northern and upper Thailand faced a different kind of weather shift. Isolated thunderstorms were forecast for 13 December, followed by the arrival of a strong high-pressure system from China that would push temperatures down by 2–4 degrees Celsius. Conditions were expected to turn noticeably cooler to cold, with stronger winds, and people were urged to protect their health.
Farmers urged to shield crops
The abrupt cold spell posed a potential threat to agriculture, and the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) advised farmers to safeguard their crops from possible damage. The rapid transition from warm, humid weather to cooler conditions could stress sensitive plants, making timely protection crucial. The dual weather challenge was being closely monitored by the authorities across the country.
Highest risk areas in the deep south
The situation was described as particularly critical in the southern provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Narathiwat, as well as Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani and Yala, where the heaviest rain and the greatest risk of flooding were expected. Residents in low-lying areas were urged to take precautions and follow official warnings via radio or mobile applications.
“The current weather situation presents Thailand with a double challenge that is being closely monitored by the authorities,”
said the Thai Meteorological Department, the national weather agency.