Thailand issues warning for heavy rain, hail, flash floods
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of heavy to very heavy rain, gusty winds and hail in parts of Thailand through October 7, with flash floods and forest run-off possible in vulnerable areas.
In Warning No. 9, issued at 5pm on Monday (October 5), the department forecast unstable weather over upper Thailand from October 5–7, bringing thunderstorms, gusty winds, hail and locally heavy to very heavy rain.
The North, the Central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, the East and the upper South are expected to face the main effects on October 5–6, while rainfall in the Northeast is forecast to ease.
READ: Heavy rain and gusty winds raise flash flood risk in upper Thailand
By October 7, the areas most affected by the unstable conditions are expected to shift towards the western parts of the North and Central regions.
Flash-flood risk in vulnerable areas
The conditions are being driven by a high-pressure system or cool air mass from China extending over the North and upper Northeast at the end of the rainy season. The southwest monsoon continues to prevail over the Andaman Sea, the South and the Gulf of Thailand.
The TMD urged people to watch for thunderstorms, gusty winds and heavy or accumulated rainfall, which could trigger flash floods and forest run-off.
People living on foothills, near waterways and in low-lying areas should be particularly cautious, as flooding could develop where drainage is limited. The public was also advised to avoid open areas, large trees and insecure billboards during thunderstorms and strong winds.
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Waves to strengthen in Andaman Sea and Gulf
Winds and waves in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand are expected to strengthen, with waves exceeding two metres in thunderstorm areas.
Mariners should check weather and sea conditions before travelling, navigate with caution and avoid areas affected by thunderstorms.
The department also forecast an increase in rainfall from October 9–13 across the East, the Central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, and the South, with heavy to very heavy rain possible in some areas. /dl
