Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) issued its fifth summer storm warning, alerting residents across 62 provinces to brace for strong gales and hailstorms
Advisories have been communicated for people to avoid open spaces, and seek shelter away from large trees during the storm’s expected passage from today, March 19, until tomorrow.
Kornrawee Sitthichivapak, TMD Director-General, announced that a moderate high-pressure area or a mass of cool air from China will extend over upper Thailand and the South China Sea. As a result, Thailand will experience summer storms characterized by thunderstorms, strong winds, and sporadic hail.
This early phase of summer storms is a precursor to a temperature drop, and residents are advised to prepare for the potential dangers.
The juxtaposition of hot to very hot weather in the upper regions of Thailand with the incoming cold air mass sets the stage for these summer storms, which may also include lightning strikes. The public has been urged to avoid staying out in the open, beneath large trees, and near unstable structures and billboards.
The changing weather conditions also call for heightened health precautions. Farmers, in particular, are advised to protect their crops and livestock from possible damage.
TMD warning
Places affected in the northeast include Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani.
