Bangkok: The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for heavy to very heavy rain and strong winds across 19 provinces in Thailand from July 19-24. This warning comes as storm 'Wipha' is about to make landfall in the Philippines, with potential repercussions for Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the department's Issue 3 warning highlights the impact of a monsoon trough over the upper North, combined with a strong southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and mudslides, specifically in the provinces of Chiang Rai, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi, Lopburi, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat.
The waves in the Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand are expected to be strong, with heights reaching 2-3 meters and exceeding 3 meters in stormy areas. The department advises sailors to exercise caution and recommends that small boats remain ashore.
Additionally, there are concerns about the impact of Tropical Storm 'Wipha' on Thailand from July 22-24. The storm, currently intensifying in the eastern Philippines, is projected to move into the upper South China Sea and potentially weaken along the monsoon trough in northern Thailand. This development could lead to heavy rain in the northern, upper northeastern, and western central regions of the country, necessitating close monitoring.