The Thai Meteorological Department forecasts a surge in rainfall across the country and warns that from the 14th to the 16th, Thailand will experience heavy rainfall nationwide, while Bangkok and nearby provinces may see continued heavy rain in certain areas from the 17th to the 19th, which could seriously impact travelers.
The department has issued a reminder that from October 14th to 16th, all regions of Thailand should be alert to heavy rainfall and the potential safety risks posed by accumulated precipitation; at the same time, vessels along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea coasts should navigate with caution and avoid entering thunderstorm areas.
The Meteorological Department pointed out that from the 17th to the 19th, the central region (including Bangkok and surrounding provinces), as well as parts of the eastern and southern regions, will continue to experience heavy rainfall in certain areas.
The department's analysis indicates that the increase in rainfall is primarily influenced by two major weather systems: First, the easterly wave system will gradually move in and cover the northeastern, central-southern, eastern, northern Gulf of Thailand, central, and north-central regions; second, the southwest monsoon will continue to affect the Andaman Sea and Thailand’s southern region.
Continuous Heavy Rain in Several Areas Causes Multiple Safety Incidents
Recently, frequent heavy rain in many parts of Thailand has already led to multiple safety incidents.
At around 12:40 p.m. on the 12th, a flash flood suddenly occurred in Khao Yai National Park, with floodwaters sweeping into the Sarika Waterfall area of Nakhon Nayok Province.
According to Yotsawa, head of Nakhon Nayok’s First Conservation Area Management Office, Khao Yai National Park chief Chaiya reported that after receiving the heavy rain warning, the head of the park's sixth management zone and staff stationed at the waterfall immediately notified tourists to evacuate the area. However, the flash flood was extremely swift, and three tourists were unable to evacuate in time, becoming trapped on a small islet in the middle of the waterfall.
In this emergency, the staff on site promptly initiated a rescue operation, successfully securing a rope to a tree to transfer the three stranded tourists safely to the shore. No injuries occurred in this incident.
On the night of October 12, a lightning strike occurred at Pui Luang Mountain in Mae Hong Son Province. A 30-year-old female tourist was tragically struck by lightning while engaging in outdoor activities, resulting in severe burns across her body and loss of consciousness. Her companions and local porters immediately performed CPR and helped carry her down the slippery mountain trail. She was first taken to Mae Hong Son Hospital for treatment, and later transferred to Chiang Mai Nakornping Hospital for further care.
Meteorological experts warn that with the frequent occurrence of heavy rain, localized thunderstorms, and abnormal weather events, the public should maintain a high level of vigilance in daily travel and outdoor activities, pay close attention to official weather forecasts and safety advisories, and plan itineraries appropriately.