Heavy downpours are expected across the country today (Thursday), while continuous heavy rain is likely in the north, northeast, central region, east and south. People in these areas are advised to prepare for the dangers of accumulated rain, which may cause flash floods, especially at the bases of mountains and near waterways.
According to the Thai Meteorological Department, these weather conditions are due to a monsoon trough, which lies across Myanmar and the north and northeast, and a low pressure cell over the middle of the South China Sea. Meanwhile, an active low pressure cell is covering the coast of Myanmar and a strong southwesterly monsoon is blowing across the Andaman Sea and the Gulf.
The department also predicts rough conditions and strong winds in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, with waves up to 3 metres high and taller in stormy areas, as it advises small vessels to stay ashore until Sunday.
About 70% of Bangkok and its suburbs are forecast to see heavy rainfall. Similar conditions are forecast for the northeast, north, east and western coast. Affected provinces include Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakhon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen and Ubon Ratchathani
Heavy rain is also expected along 60% of the eastern coast and in the middle of the country. Affected provinces include Lop Buri, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon and Surat Thani.