Thailand warns of heavy rain and flood risk across the south

Hat Yai, southern Thailand, during flooding in November 2010 — archive photograph. The image does not show the current weather conditions by High Contrast, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a fresh warning for heavy to very heavy rain in the country’s south between 5 and 7 November, with possible impacts on coastal destinations, marine excursions and road travel.

The department’s 2 November advisory also forecasts thunderstorms, gusty winds and isolated heavy rain in upper Thailand, before unsettled conditions spread to other regions. Residents and visitors have been advised to avoid exposed outdoor areas, large trees and unsecured structures during severe weather.

The latest seven-day forecast indicates scattered thunderstorms and isolated heavy rain across the southern east coast from 2 to 4 November. From 5 to 7 November, storms are expected to become scattered to fairly widespread, with isolated heavy rain and the possibility of very heavy rain on 7 November.

The department warned that accumulated rainfall could cause flash floods, overflowing waterways and landslides, particularly near foothills, low-lying areas and channels. On the Gulf coast, winds are forecast to reach 15–35km/h, with waves of one to two metres and higher waves in thunderstorms. On the Andaman coast, waves could exceed two metres during storms.

Marine operators in both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea have been advised to avoid thunderstorms. The conditions could affect island transfers, boat tours, diving, swimming and other outdoor activities, while heavy rain may complicate road journeys through low-lying or mountainous areas.

The warning does not announce an airport closure or a nationwide travel shutdown. Hotels, tour operators and travellers should nevertheless monitor local authority updates and confirm marine excursions before departure.

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