Thailand: Heavy rain and floods forecast in southern provinces as of Dec. 17

Event

Several southern provinces were impacted by severe flooding on December 15-16 following heavy rainfall in recent days. In Muang district (Nakhon Si Thammarat province), local authorities reported up to 30-50 cm (11-20 in) of floodwater, impacting the Bangkok-Nakhon Si Thammarat train services. In Narathiwat province, local authorities reported up to 40 cm (16 in) of floodwater in Sungai Kolok municipal area. In Kanchanadit district (Surat Thani province), populations had to deal with water depths of up to 80 cm (31 in). Floodwaters were receding or stabilizing in various areas as of Monday, December 17.

Also, on Monday, the Thai Meteorological Department forecast further heavy rain brought by the northeastern monsoon for the southern provinces of Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat over the coming days. Additional flooding is possible in affected areas, as well as associated transportation disruptions and power outages.  

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation and power disruptions, reconfirm flights, obey instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and avoid flood-prone areas until the situation stabilizes. 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.