PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya and Thailand’s eastern seaboard are expected to see more thunderstorms this week as meteorologists warn of strengthening monsoon conditions across the country, particularly in southern coastal provinces. The Thai Meteorological Department said thunderstorms will affect around 40% of eastern provinces including Pattaya, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat, with heavy downpours possible in some areas as southwest monsoon winds continue sweeping across the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea. The warning comes after days of sweltering heat across Pattaya, where temperatures have climbed as high as 37 degrees Celsius, sending tourists flocking to beaches and nearby islands in search of relief.
Forecasters said conditions are expected to worsen between May 28-29 as the southwest monsoon strengthens further, bringing heavier rain and rougher seas, especially along Thailand’s southern Andaman coast. Provinces including Ranong, Phang Nga and Phuket are forecast to receive up to 70% rainfall coverage with isolated heavy to very heavy rain. In Pattaya and nearby coastal areas, waves in the Gulf are expected to reach up to 2 meters during thunderstorms, prompting warnings for small boats and ferries to operate with caution. Authorities advised residents and tourists to remain alert for sudden storms, localized flooding and dangerous sea conditions, especially during afternoon and evening hours when thunderstorms are most likely to develop.
