Thailand: Heavy showers bring flooding to south Sep. 24

Event

Heavy showers have battered Thailand's southern provinces in recent days, inundating low-lying areas in the region with up to 30 cm (11.8 in) of floodwaters as of Sunday, September 24. Among the most severely affected parts of Thailand's south are Satun, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, and Trang provinces. Satun province has endured the heaviest rain, with transportation disruptions reported in Ta Pae district due to flooding. As of September 24, Thailand's Meteorological Department has forecast more thunderstorms to strike the southern region of the country in the coming days. Expect flash flooding and consequent transportation disruptions in affected areas.

Context

Thailand has been hit by severe floods during the current monsoon season, which spans from April to October. Most recently, Storm Doksuri brought significant rainfall and flooding to the country's eastern and southern regions. Strong tropical storms that hit the country from July 5 to August 15 resulted in flooding in more than 44 provinces, killing at least 40 individuals and affecting nearly two million people.

Advice

Individuals in Thailand are advised to monitor weather forecasts and to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders). Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.