Typhoon Ragasa, now moving through the South China Sea, is expected to bring widespread heavy rain and flooding to parts of Thailand this week, according to the Meteorological Department.
Director-general Sugunyanee Yavinchan said on Tuesday morning that the storm was located in the upper South China Sea at 4am. It is heading toward Hong Kong and is forecast to pass the Gulf of Tonkin on Thursday.
Ragasa is expected to weaken into a tropical storm as it moves inland over northern Vietnam before quickly losing strength under the influence of cold air from China on Thursday and Friday.
Despite the weakening, the typhoon’s influence will intensify monsoon troughs across northern and northeastern Thailand as well as the Gulf of Thailand.
The impact is expected from Tuesday through Friday, with authorities warning of heavy downpours, flash floods, and waterlogging in many areas.
Ms. Sugunyanee said rainfall would likely be persistent and widespread, affecting the North, Northeast, Central Plain including Greater Bangkok, and the East. Local residents are being urged to monitor weather updates and prepare for potential hazards.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported on Tuesday morning that flooding had already been recorded in 16 provinces across the North, Northeast, Central, and Eastern regions.
The provinces affected include Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Phichit, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, and Chachoengsao.
Authorities noted that flood levels were rising in Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Phichit, while other provinces saw either stable or receding water levels. Residents in at-risk areas are advised to remain vigilant as conditions may worsen.
