Tropical storm to bring heavy rain to northern and central regions this week

Heavy to very heavy rain is forecast for Thailand’s northern, north-eastern regions and the western section of the central plains from Tuesday until Thursday, as Tropical Storm Vipa is now heading towards the southern coast of China, then on to Tonkin Bay and Vietnam, before weakening into a depression and finally a low pressure cell over Laos.

The Meteorological Department advises people living in Nan, Phayao and Chiang Rai provinces to prepare for evacuation, because the tropical storm is expected to pick up strength from today through Thursday.

Small vessels are advised not to set sail in the Gulf or Andaman Sea, due to strong winds and high waves, and to keep abreast of the latest weather forecasts.

People living in low-lying areas and near mountains in Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong and Phang-nga, as well as in northern and north-eastern provinces, are being advised to brace for possible flash floods and river overflows from Tuesday.

Bangkok and its surrounding areas will face rain, with heavy rainfall in some areas, covering 70% of capital.