Thailand Braces for More Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms, With Bangkok and the South Among Areas at Risk

Thailand is set to experience more heavy thunderstorms and rainfall, with the Meteorological Department warning of heavy to very heavy rain across dozens of provinces, particularly in Bangkok and surrounding areas and parts of the South.

The Meteorological Department said the increase in rainfall is being driven by the southward movement of the monsoon trough, a strengthening southwest monsoon and a strong low-pressure system over the South China Sea.

Isolated very heavy rain is expected in parts of southern Thailand, while the lower Central region — including Bangkok and nearby provinces — and the East could experience heavy rain in some areas. Rainfall is expected to become less intense in the North and Northeast.

Bangkok and its surrounding provinces could see thunderstorms covering more than 70% of the area during the 24-hour forecast period, with isolated heavy rain. Night-time temperatures are expected to remain in the mid-20s Celsius, while daytime temperatures should reach the low to mid-30s. Winds are forecast to vary in direction or come from the northwest at around 10–20 kilometres per hour.

Authorities warned that intense and accumulated rainfall could lead to flash floods, mountain runoff and landslides. The greatest risks are expected in foothill areas near waterways and in low-lying communities.

Residents have been advised to monitor local conditions closely, avoid flood-prone routes and remain alert for sudden increases in water levels.

Recent TMD bulletins have repeatedly identified a number of provinces as being at risk of heavy or very heavy rainfall. In the Central region, these include Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon and Samut Songkhram.

In the East, the areas named include Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat.

A large part of the South is also included in the warnings, stretching from Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan to Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.

Earlier related weather warnings had put the number of affected provinces at around 36.

Marine conditions are also expected to require caution. Waves in the upper Andaman Sea are forecast to reach around 2 metres and could become higher in areas affected by thunderstorms. Small boats have been advised to remain close to shore when sea conditions become rough.

The Meteorological Department said the unsettled and wet weather pattern is expected to continue through at least September 13.

Weather updates are available through the TMD website. The department can also be contacted through its 24-hour hotlines at 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182.