PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has issued a warning for residents in 15 provinces to prepare for the risk of heavy rainfall, flash floods, and runoff between May 31 and June 1, as strong southwest monsoon conditions and a monsoon trough continue to affect the country. Chayan Muangsong, Secretary-General of the ONWR, said the agency’s latest assessment indicates that several areas could receive more than 100 millimeters of accumulated rainfall within a 12-hour period.
The warning follows ongoing monitoring of weather conditions linked to a relatively strong southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a monsoon trough stretching across the upper part of the country.
According to ONWR, provinces requiring close monitoring include:
Northern Thailand: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Tak.
Eastern Thailand: Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat.
Western Thailand: Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, and Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Southern Thailand: Chumphon, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi.
Authorities warned that low-lying areas, urban communities with poor drainage, and locations prone to flash flooding and runoff are particularly vulnerable if heavy rain persists. ONWR advised residents in affected provinces to closely monitor weather forecasts and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. Local authorities have also been instructed to prepare drainage systems, emergency equipment, machinery, and response plans to ensure assistance can be provided quickly if flooding occurs. Phuket has been identified as an area of special concern due to geographical limitations and its capacity to handle large volumes of rainfall. Officials warned that prolonged heavy rain could lead to flooding in low-lying areas, disrupt transportation, and affect daily life across the island. The agency said it will continue to monitor rainfall and water levels nationwide and coordinate with relevant agencies to respond to any developing emergencies. (TNA)
