TMD warns 37 provinces of heavy rain as low-pressure system may intensify

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned 37 provinces to prepare for heavy to very heavy rain on September 12-13, with possible flash floods and run-off in vulnerable areas.

The warning, issued at 5pm on September 12, covers parts of the lower North, Northeast, Central region, Bangkok and surrounding provinces, the East and the South. The TMD said residents should be particularly alert in foothill areas, near waterways and in low-lying locations, and avoid roads that are repeatedly affected by flooding.

An active low-pressure cell along the coast of central Vietnam is forecast to strengthen into a tropical cyclone and move closer to the coast of upper Vietnam between September 13 and 14. The TMD urged people to follow further weather updates and plan travel and daily activities carefully.

On the southern west coast, thunderstorms are forecast across 70% of the region. Heavy rain is expected in Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun, while very heavy rain is forecast in Ranong and Phang Nga.

From Phuket northwards, westerly winds are expected to reach 20-35 kilometres per hour. Waves will be about two metres high and may exceed two metres during thunderstorms. From Krabi southwards, northwesterly winds are forecast at 15-35 kilometres per hour, with waves of one to two metres and higher in stormy areas.

The TMD also forecast heavy rain in several provinces on the southern east coast, with very heavy rain possible in Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon. Bangkok and surrounding provinces are expected to experience thunderstorms across 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some locations.