Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of northern and northeastern Thailand from Tuesday through Friday, with authorities warning of possible flash floods and forest runoff in high-risk communities.
The Meteorological Department issued its second weather advisory on Sunday, attributing the unstable conditions to a monsoon trough extending across the North and upper Northeast, combined with a fairly strong southwesterly monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.
These weather systems are expected to produce widespread rainfall across upper Thailand over the four-day period, including isolated downpours ranging from heavy to very heavy.
Residents in foothill communities, areas near waterways and low-lying districts have been urged to closely monitor weather conditions. Prolonged rainfall could cause sudden flooding and runoff, particularly in locations where the ground is already saturated.
Motorists should also exercise caution and avoid roads with a history of flooding, as temporary inundation may disrupt travel in vulnerable areas.
Marine conditions are expected to become increasingly hazardous from Wednesday to Friday. Waves in the upper Andaman Sea could reach two to three metres, rising beyond three metres during thunderstorms.
The lower Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand are likely to experience waves of around two metres, increasing to more than two metres in thundershower areas.
All vessels operating in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand have been advised to proceed cautiously and keep away from thunderstorms. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea should remain ashore throughout the warning period.
