BANGKOK: Thailand’s Meteorological Department has warned of stormy weather across 51 provinces, with very hot conditions in the North and temperatures reaching 40 deg C, while the Northeast and East face heavy rain, hail and strong winds.
The latest weather update said upper Thailand, especially the North, would see hot to very hot weather during the day. Rain is expected to increase in the North, Northeast and East, with thunderstorms, strong gusts and isolated hail, particularly in the lower North, the Northeast, the Central Plains and the East.
The department said the weather pattern is being driven by a heat-induced low-pressure system covering upper Thailand, while stronger southerly and south-easterly winds are bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand over the region.
Residents in upper Thailand have been urged to take care during thunderstorms and strong winds, and to avoid staying in open areas, under large trees, or near unstable buildings and billboards.
Farmers have been advised to strengthen fruit trees and prepare for possible damage to crops and livestock, while also looking after their health because of the hot weather.
In the South, isolated thunderstorms are expected in some areas due to south-easterly winds over the Gulf of Thailand, the South and the Andaman Sea. Waves in both the Gulf and the Andaman are expected to remain slight at around one metre, rising above two metres in areas with thunderstorms.
Boat operators in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea have been advised to navigate with caution and avoid stormy areas.
The department also said air quality in upper Thailand remains in a good range at present, with dust and haze accumulation limited because of favourable ventilation. - The Nation/ANN
