PUBLISHED : 5 Jan 2025 at 18:10
Bangkok is bracing for a notable drop in temperature, with forecasts indicating a low of 15°C on Monday, maintaining this chill through Tuesday. Seree Supharathit, director of the Centre for Climate Change and Disaster at Rangsit University, reported that a further decrease of 2-3°C is anticipated, impacting both Bangkok and surrounding areas.
The northern and northeastern regions might experience temperatures falling to around 12°C. This cool spell is expected to persist until about January 20, after which conditions are likely to warm up.
Scientists suggest that while the global average temperature this year may be slightly lower than last year, it will continue to hover high, with an average increase of approximately 1.41°C—lower than last year’s over 1.5°C.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has noted that a robust high-pressure system or cold air mass is settling over upper Thailand, the upper south, and the South China Sea. This weather phenomenon is projected to result in a temperature drop of 1-2°C in upper Thailand within the next 24 hours, accompanied by strong winds, rendering the northern, northeastern, and central regions cool to cold.
In the mornings, residents of Bangkok and its adjacent areas, as well as those in the eastern and upper southern regions, will experience cold weather. Meanwhile, mountaintops and highland areas are forecasted to be cold to very cold, with frost possible in some locations. The public is advised to take precautions against the cold weather and to be mindful of fire risks due to dry, windy conditions.
In Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon National Park reports clear weather and excellent air quality. The lowest recorded temperatures were 5°C at the mountain’s summit, 7°C at Kiew Mae Pan, and 9°C at the park office, with PM2.5 levels reported as zero.
The park continues to attract visitors who are eager to experience the wintry climate, morning sunlight, and stunning natural scenery in the aftermath of the New Year holiday. On January 4 alone, Doi Inthanon welcomed 2,066 vehicles and 7,984 visitors, including 6,230 Thais and 1,754 foreigners. Tourists are advised to exercise caution while driving to the mountain.
