Unseasonably Low Temperatures Grip Thailand as Cold Front Moves In
As Thailand braces for a sudden drop in temperatures due to a strong cold front from China, significant weather changes are expected across the nation. The northeastern province of Nakhon Phanom recorded the coldest temperature of the year at 7.2°C on Sunday, highlighting the effects of the cold air mass impacting the region.
According to the Meteorological Department, areas in the upper and central parts of Thailand could see temperatures decline by 1-5°C over the weekend. On Sunday morning, the northern and northeastern provinces reported a temperature drop of 3-5°C, with Nakhon Phanom leading the way at 7.2°C. In Bangkok, the lowest temperature was noted at 17.5°C in the Bang Na district.
The department’s forecasts indicate that the Central region, including Bangkok and the East, will experience a decrease of 1-2°C, accompanied by stronger winds. Residents are urged to take precautions against the cooler weather and remain alert to potential fire hazards due to dry conditions.
Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department predicts that the current high-pressure system will weaken by Tuesday and Wednesday, resulting in a rise in temperatures. However, cooler conditions are expected to persist in upper Thailand on Thursday and Friday, as a mild cold air mass is anticipated to move in.
Meteorologists remind the public that winter is not over, with chilly to cold weather forecasted to continue in the North and Northeast until the end of January.
In contrast, heavy rainfall is expected in several lower southern provinces this Sunday and Monday, influenced by a strong northeastern monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the South. Strong winds and substantial waves of 2-4 meters are possible in the Gulf, while the Andaman Sea may see waves between 1-2 meters.
Residents in coastal eastern southern regions should remain cautious of potential coastal hazards. Authorities recommend that all vessels in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea remain ashore until Monday, with others advised to navigate carefully and avoid storm-prone areas.
