28 Apr 2023 | 02:50 AM UTC
Thailand: Adverse weather forecast across the country through at least May 2
Severe weather forecast across Thailand through at least May 2. Possible transport, business, utility disruptions.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across most of the country through at least May 2. As of early April 28, the Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for summer storms in northern and central Thailand April 29-May 1. The storms are forecast to initially break out in parts of the northeastern, northern, central, and eastern regions April 29 before spreading across most of northern and central Thailand April 30, and persist over the northern and central regions May 1. Rainfall and thunderstorms are also forecast in the southern region. Gusty winds, lightning, and hail are possible during thunderstorms.
Strong winds could fell trees and power lines as well as cause damage to unsecured infrastructure. Flooding and landslides are possible in areas where thunderstorms produce intense rainfall. Large waves are forecast in the Gulf of Thailand; authorities have advised small boats to refrain from leaving the shore April 30-May 2. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Thunderstorms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. In areas where sustained rainfall occurs, flash and areal flooding are possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Transport
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region.
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.
