PATTAYA, Thailand – The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for summer storms across upper Thailand, with impacts expected through April 20, raising concerns for outdoor activities during Pattaya’s Wan Lai celebrations.
In its latest announcement on April 17, the Thai Meteorological Department said thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail could affect large parts of the country, starting in the Northeast and the East before spreading to central regions, including Bangkok and the North.
For Pattaya, where Wan Lai water festivities traditionally draw large crowds to the beach and city streets, the warning comes as temperatures remain hot to very hot, with hazy conditions during the day and increasing chances of thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening.
The agency said the weather pattern is being driven by a high-pressure system from China pushing down toward the South China Sea, strengthening southwesterly and southeasterly winds over the Gulf of Thailand and eastern provinces, including Chonburi.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid open areas, unsecured structures, and large trees during storms, as strong gusts and lightning may occur suddenly. Farmers have also been advised to protect crops and livestock from potential damage.
Despite the unstable conditions, daytime weather remains generally hot across the country, with isolated rain expected in some areas, including a 20% chance of thunderstorms in the Bangkok metropolitan region.
As Pattaya prepares for Wan Lai festivities, officials are expected to closely monitor conditions to ensure public safety as large crowds gather for the final peak of Songkran celebrations.
