Thailand heavy rain warning: Flash flood and storm surge warnings issued

Thailand is expected to experience heavy to very heavy rain from now until July 18, which may cause flash floods and forest flooding, especially in Bangkok. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued warnings for the whole country.

From today until July 18, a strong monsoon trough will pass through northern and northeastern Thailand, merging with a low pressure system over the central South China Sea. This, combined with a strong southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, will lead to increased rainfall across the country.

Affected areas
- Northern Thailand: Heavy rain is expected in Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan and Tak.

- Northeast Thailand: Provinces such as Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Si Sa Ket and Ubon Ratchathani will be on high alert. - Central Thailand: Heavy rainfall is expected in Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi. - Eastern Thailand: Heavy rain is expected in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat. - Southern Thailand: Heavy rain will also occur in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket and Krabi. Continuous rain and warnings

Heavy rain will continue in northern provinces such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun and Tak from July 15 to July 16. Heavy rain will also occur in northeastern provinces and central regions, including Bangkok.

Heavy rain will occur in northern provinces such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun and Tak from July 17 to July 18. It will continue to affect northeastern and central Thailand, including Bangkok.

Marine warnings
Strong winds will prevail in the upper Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand, with waves 2 to 3 metres high in areas prone to thunderstorms, and waves over 3 metres high in thunderstorm areas. Waves around 2 metres high will prevail in the lower Andaman Sea and lower Gulf of Thailand, with waves over 2 metres high in stormy areas. Boaters are advised to proceed with caution and avoid sailing in areas prone to thunderstorms. Small boats in these areas should remain close to shore until July 18.

Stay informed
Residents are urged to keep up to date with announcements from the Thai Meteorological Department, which can be accessed via their website or their 24-hour hotline. The next update will be issued at 5pm today.

This heavy rain warning is a reminder to remain vigilant and prepared for potential flooding and other weather-related hazards.

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