Heavy rain puts North and Northeast Thailand at flash-flood risk

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued its sixth advisory at 5pm on Friday (September 4), warning that heavy to very heavy rain will affect parts of upper Thailand through September 7, with the North and Northeast particularly at risk of flash floods and sudden run-off.

The department expects isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall across upper Thailand during the period as a monsoon trough stretches across the North and upper Northeast, while a moderate southwest monsoon continues over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand.

People in affected areas have been urged to remain alert to heavy rain and accumulated rainfall that could trigger flash flooding and rapid run-off. Particular caution is advised in areas along the Mekong River basin, foothills near waterways and low-lying communities.

Travellers should avoid routes that are repeatedly affected by flooding, especially low-lying roads where temporary inundation could develop.

The public is also advised to plan daily activities and journeys carefully and follow further TMD announcements. Weather information is available through www.tmd.go.th and the department’s 24-hour telephone services on 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182.

Agricultural weather outlook

In its agricultural weather forecast for September 4-10, the TMD advised farmers nationwide to prepare for heavy to very heavy rain, particularly during September 8-10, when unsettled conditions could increase the risk of flash floods and sudden run-off.

Growers of horticultural and field crops should watch for fungal diseases and ensure drainage systems are working properly to prevent waterlogging. Livestock farmers should inspect the roofs of animal shelters and avoid keeping animals in damp or waterlogged areas.

Waves in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand are expected to reach about two metres, and boat operators and fishermen are advised to navigate with caution.

Regional forecast from 6pm on September 4 to 6pm on September 5

• North — Thunderstorms are forecast across 60% of the region, with isolated heavy rain in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Tak, Phitsanulok and Phetchabun. Heavy rain is also expected in parts of Chiang Rai, Phayao and Nan. Minimum temperatures will range from 22-27°C, with maximum temperatures of 31-35°C.
   
• Northeast — Thunderstorms will affect 70% of the region. Heavy rain is forecast in Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Sakon Nakhon, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et and Si Sa Ket. Very heavy rain is possible in Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen and Ubon Ratchathani. Temperatures will range from lows of 23-26°C to highs of 32-35°C.
   
• Central region — Thunderstorms are expected across 60% of the region, with isolated heavy rain in Lop Buri and Saraburi. Minimum temperatures will be 24-27°C and maximum temperatures 34-36°C.
   
• East — Thunderstorms will cover 60% of the region, with heavy rain possible in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chanthaburi and Trat. Temperatures will range from 23-27°C to 31-35°C.
   
• South, east coast — Thunderstorms are forecast across 40% of the region, mainly in Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures will be 23-26°C and maximum temperatures 33-36°C.
   
• South, west coast — Thunderstorms will affect 60% of the region, with isolated heavy rain in Trang and Satun. Temperatures will range from 23-25°C to 31-34°C.
   
• Bangkok and surrounding provinces — Thunderstorms are expected across 60% of the area. Minimum temperatures will range from 26-27°C, with maximum temperatures of 33-36°C.