Severe summer storms forecast for much of Thailand through Saturday

The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a severe weather warning for northern Thailand, forecasting a wave of summer storms, characterised by thunderstorms, lightning, high winds and isolated hailstorms, from today through Saturday.

In its advisory issued on Thursday, the department stated that the volatile weather is triggered by a high-pressure system and a cold air mass from China moving into the northeast and the South China Sea.

This cold front is expected to collide with the intense heat currently blanketing northern Thailand, creating highly unstable atmospheric conditions.

The storms will initially lash the north and northeast, before moving across the central plains, including greater Bangkok and eastern provinces in the following days.

"People are advised to stay indoors and avoid open areas, large trees, and unstable billboards during these storms," the department advised.

Farmers have also been urged to reinforce structures for crops and livestock to mitigate potential damage.

On April 23, the brunt of the weather will be felt in Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakhon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom and Mukdahan.

Moderate risk of such storms are also forecast for Chiang Rai, Phayao and several provinces in the central northeast.

On April 24, the storm area will expand significantly. High-risk zones include Lampang, Phrae and Phichit, alongside previously affected provinces. In the northeast, there are many provinces at high-risk, including Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen and Ubon Ratchathani. On the central plains, potentially affected provinces include Nakhon Sawan and Lop Buri.

Moderate risk extends to Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, Trat, Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi.

On April 25, the system will shift its focus toward the west and the central heartland. High-risk areas include Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Tak, Uthai Thani, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, as well as Bangkok and its surrounding provinces.

Chachoengsao and Chon Buri are also expected to see intensified storm activity.

The department noted that, while the storms may bring temporary relief from the scorching temperatures, the accompanying winds and hail pose a significant threat to property.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather updates closely from today through the weekend.