PATTAYA, Thailand – The Thai Meteorological Department has issued its 11th warning for heavy to very heavy rain, with Chonburi and other eastern provinces facing heavy rainfall through Sept 13.
The department said the South will see increased rainfall, with some areas facing heavy to very heavy rain on Sept 12–13. Heavy rain is also expected in parts of the lower North, Northeast, Central region, Bangkok and surrounding areas, and the East.
Chonburi is among the eastern provinces listed for heavy rain on both Sept 12 and 13. Other affected eastern provinces include Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat. The weather pattern is being influenced by cooler air from China spreading over northern and northeastern Thailand, while a monsoon trough extends across the lower Central region, upper South, upper Gulf of Thailand and the East. The southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, South and Gulf is also expected to strengthen.
The department warned that heavy and accumulated rainfall could cause flash floods and runoff, particularly in foothill areas, near waterways and in low-lying locations. People were advised to avoid repeatedly flooded routes and take extra care when travelling through low-lying areas where temporary flooding could occur. The department is also monitoring a strong low-pressure system near central Vietnam, which could strengthen into a tropical cyclone and is expected to move closer to northern Vietnam on Sept 13–14.
For Sept 13, very heavy rain is forecast in Chanthaburi and Trat in the East, as well as Ranong and Phang Nga in the South. Heavy rain is also expected in Chonburi, Rayong, Chachoengsao and Sa Kaeo. The department’s seven-day forecast indicates that rain will continue in the Central region, Bangkok and surrounding areas, the East and the South from Sept 14–18, with some areas facing heavy to very heavy rain.
During the same period, the upper Andaman Sea could see waves of 2–3 metres, rising above 3 metres in thunderstorms. The lower Andaman Sea and upper Gulf could see waves around 2 metres, with higher waves possible in thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to exercise caution and avoid areas experiencing thunderstorms. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea should remain ashore from Sept 14–16. Residents are advised to follow updates from the Thai Meteorological Department and plan travel and daily activities carefully during the period of unsettled weather.
