Meteorological Dept Warns Of Severe Weather In Thailand's Northern And Southern Regions

By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock

BANGKOK, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- Residents in flood-prone regions of Thailand are urged to stay vigilant and be on high alert as thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are expected to batter the North, Northeast, East, and Southern parts of the country this weekend.

The wet weather is being driven by a strong southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, coupled with spillover effects from Super Typhoon Yagi.

Thailand's Meteorological Department expects the North and upper Northeast regions to experience heavy to very heavy rain, along with strong winds in some areas, on September 7 and 8.

"The rather strong southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, the South, and the Gulf of Thailand will cause heavy rain in some areas, with very heavy rain expected in parts of the Eastern region and the Western coast of the Southern region.

"People in these areas should be cautious of the dangers posed by heavy and accumulated rain, which may lead to flash floods and forest runoff, especially in hillside areas near waterways and low-lying areas," the department said in a statement on Friday.

It also noted that waves in the Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand are expected to be quite strong, with waves reaching heights of 2-3 metres, while in the lower Gulf of Thailand, waves will be 1-2 metres high.

"Ships in these areas are advised to sail with caution and avoid sailing in regions experiencing thunderstorms. Small boats in the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand should refrain from leaving shore until September 8," it added.

-- BERNAMA