Residents in 25 districts across Chiang Mai have been urged to prepare for flash floods, forest runoff, and potential landslides, with Tropical Storm Wipha forecast to bring heavy rain to northern Thailand through Thursday.
Chiang Mai’s deputy governor, Siwakorn Buapong, issued the warning on Saturday, calling on local authorities and residents to remain on high alert. The prolonged rainfall expected from Wipha could significantly raise the risk of natural disasters, he said.
Districts most likely to be affected include Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao, Mae Rim, and San Sai. Although current rainfall levels remain moderate, between 27 and 50 millimetres from scattered storms, residents are being advised to prepare emergency supplies in case of evacuation.
In Chiang Mai city, flood mitigation efforts are already underway in eight vulnerable zones. These include adjustments to flood barriers, installation of water pumps, road surface improvements, and upgrades to the drainage system.
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a national warning for heavy to very heavy rain across multiple regions this week. The provinces of Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong, and Phangnga are expected to experience the heaviest downpours, while central and northeastern provinces will also be affected.
Authorities warn that cumulative rainfall, driven by a strengthening southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, could lead to flash flooding and runoff, especially in low-lying areas and those near foothills or water channels.
The department also forecasts wave heights of 2 to 3 metres in the upper Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand, with higher surges possible during thunderstorms. In the lower Andaman Sea, waves of around 2 metres are expected, with rougher conditions in storm-affected areas.
Marine operators have been urged to navigate with caution, while small boats in the upper Andaman and Gulf regions are advised to remain ashore.
Tropical Storm Wipha is currently moving into the upper South China Sea and is expected to make landfall in northern Vietnam in the coming days. Although the storm is not projected to make a direct hit on Thailand, it will likely enhance rainfall in the northern and northeastern parts of the country.
