21 Mar 2022 | 07:41 AM UTC
Thailand: Adverse weather forecast across most of the country through at least March 23
Severe weather forecast across most of Thailand through March 23. Flooding and transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas are forecast across most of Thailand through at least March 23, bringing a threat of flash flooding and overflowing rivers across the region. As of March 21, the Thai Meteorological Department has warned of strong southerly to southeasterly winds and heavy rain across the North, Central, East, and South regions. Strong winds and rough seas are forecast in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, with mariners advised to proceed with caution and small vessels in the upper Andaman Sea advised to stay ashore through at least March 22.
Authorities have issued yellow heavy rain warnings over portions of the North, East, and South regions. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.
Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.
Advice
Seek updated information on weather and related disruptions, including road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices if prolonged electricity outages occur.
