BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s weather agency warned that intense summer storms with heavy rain, hail and lightning were likely to hit large parts of the north on Wednesday and Thursday, with Bangkok expected to see more frequent storms by midweek.
Heat persists as storm risk rises
Daytime temperatures in northern Thailand remained high while isolated thunderstorms could already form in some areas. According to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), a heat-induced low-pressure system over the north of the country, reinforced by moist south-easterly and southerly winds, was driving the unstable weather.
The agency described a pattern in which hot conditions persisted but the likelihood of sudden storms increased. This combination was typical for early-season summer thunderstorms.
Summer storms expected midweek
For Wednesday and Thursday, the TMD expected a typical spring mix of brief but severe storm episodes across parts of northern, north-eastern, central and eastern Thailand. These systems were likely to be short-lived but intense.
Forecasters warned of localised heavy rain, strong gusts, hail and lightning strikes. Such phenomena could quickly become dangerous in open areas and near thunderstorms, especially where people were exposed or infrastructure was not secure.
Bangkok storm chances set to climb
For Bangkok and neighbouring provinces, thunderstorms were forecast in around 10 percent of city areas up to Tuesday. Conditions were expected to remain hot and mostly dry for much of the capital during this period.
On Wednesday and Thursday, the probability of storms in the Bangkok area was expected to rise to 20 to 40 percent. Forecast temperatures ranged from 24 to 38 degrees Celsius, keeping heat stress high even as storm chances increased.
Weather service details specific risks
The TMD urged the public to exercise particular caution during thunderstorms and to avoid risky situations.
“Translated quote.”
said NAME, ROLE.
The weather service highlighted open spaces, large trees and unstable billboards as specific hazards during strong winds and lightning. It also advised people to limit travel in areas experiencing the most severe conditions whenever possible.
Farmers urged to protect fruit trees and livestock
Agriculture was a key focus of the warning, as early-season thunderstorms often caused significant damage in short periods. The TMD noted that sudden storms could hit fields and orchards with little advance notice.
The agency recommended securing fruit trees and preparing protective measures for crops and livestock. Farmers were advised to act early, as weather conditions could change rapidly under the prevailing pattern.