PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya Bay remained remarkably calm under clear skies on Friday, but the pleasant conditions may not last, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning of increased rainfall and potentially severe weather across eastern Thailand from Saturday through Sept. 2.
A photo taken over Pattaya Bay on Aug. 28 showed relatively clear skies and calm conditions, offering little indication of the unsettled weather forecast for the days ahead. However, conditions can change quickly, particularly during the rainy season.
The Meteorological Department’s latest heavy rain warning, issued Friday afternoon, said Thailand will experience increased rainfall from Aug. 29 to Sept. 2, with heavy to very heavy rain possible in several areas. The eastern region, along with parts of the North, Central and Northeast, is among the areas expected to see heavier rainfall. The department said a monsoon trough will move southward across the North and upper Northeast toward a strong low-pressure area near northern Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin, while the southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand will remain relatively strong.
For people travelling by road, officials warned that accumulated rainfall could lead to flash floods and runoff, particularly around foothills, waterways and low-lying areas. Motorists are advised to take extra care on routes known to experience flooding and to avoid flooded roads where possible.
The warning also carries a message for those heading out to sea.
Winds and waves in the upper Andaman Sea are expected to strengthen, with waves reaching 2–3 metres and potentially exceeding 3 metres during thunderstorms. The lower Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand could see waves around 2 metres, rising above 2 metres in areas affected by thunderstorms. Boaters in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand are being urged to exercise caution and avoid areas experiencing thunderstorms. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea are advised to remain ashore during the warning period.
For Pattaya and the wider Chonburi coast, the contrast between Friday’s peaceful bay and the forecast for the weekend is a reminder that clear skies today do not necessarily mean calm conditions tomorrow. Residents, tourists, drivers, ferry passengers and boat operators should therefore check the latest weather and marine conditions before setting out, particularly from Saturday onward. The Meteorological Department said it will issue its next update at 5 a.m. on Aug. 29, with the public urged to monitor official forecasts before travelling.
