Bangkok: The Meteorological Department has announced that thunderstorms are expected to occur in 60-70% of areas across Thailand, bringing heavy rain to certain regions. This weather pattern poses a risk of flash floods and forest runoff.
According to Thai News Agency, the forecast for the next 24 hours predicts heavy rain in some areas, necessitating caution from residents regarding the dangers of accumulated rain. Areas particularly vulnerable to flash floods include hillsides near waterways and lowlands. The adverse weather conditions are attributed to the southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and western Thailand, while southeast and south winds influence the lower northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions, as well as the Gulf of Thailand.
Additionally, the Andaman Sea is expected to experience moderate waves, ranging from 1-2 meters in height, with potential increases to over 2 meters in areas experiencing thunderstorms. Mariners in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are advised to navigate carefully and avoid regions with thunderstorms.
The regional weather forecast for May 16, 2025, indicates:
- Bangkok and Surrounding Areas: Thunderstorms are anticipated in 60% of the area with some regions experiencing heavy rain. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 24-26 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 32-34 degrees Celsius, accompanied by southeast winds at 10-20 km/hr.
- Northern Region: An estimated 70% of the area will see thunderstorms, with heavy rain expected in specific locations such as Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai. Temperatures will vary between 22-25 degrees Celsius and 31-35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at 5-15 km/hr.
- Northeastern Region: Thunderstorms will impact 60% of the region, with heavy rain projected in areas including Loei and Udon Thani. The expected temperature range is 23-25 degrees Celsius to 31-35 degrees Celsius, with southeast winds at 10-20 km/hr.
- Central Region: 60% of this area will experience thunderstorms, with potential heavy rain in places like Nakhon Sawan and Lop Buri. Temperatures are expected to be between 24-26 degrees Celsius and 31-35 degrees Celsius, with south winds at 10-20 km/hr.
- Eastern Region: Thunderstorms are forecasted for 60% of the area, with heavy rain in regions such as Nakhon Nayok and Chon Buri. Temperatures will range from 24-27 degrees Celsius to 32-35 degrees Celsius, with southeast winds at 15-30 km/hr. Sea waves may reach approximately 1 meter, increasing to over 2 meters during thunderstorms.
- Southern Region (East Coast): 60% of the area will face thunderstorms, with heavy rain in locations like Phetchaburi and Surat Thani. Temperatures should be between 24-26 degrees Celsius and 30-35 degrees Celsius, with southeast winds at 15-30 km/hr. Sea waves are approximately 1 meter, with potential increases during thunderstorms.
- Southern Region (West Coast): Thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain possible in regions such as Phuket and Krabi. Temperatures will vary from 24-26 degrees Celsius to 32-35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at 15-35 km/hr. Sea waves are predicted to be 1-2 meters high, increasing in areas with thunderstorms.