Thailand Weather Bureau Debunks 'Mega Flood' Claims, Confirms Heavy Rain Forecast

Thailand's Meteorological Department has officially refuted claims circulating on social media about a "mega flood in the next 120 hours," stating that such information does not align with its official forecast data. However, the department confirmed that heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in many parts of the country from September 23 to 27. Nattawut Dandee, Deputy Director-General of the Meteorological Department’s Academic Affairs Division, addressed the issue during a media briefing on September 22. He explained that the anticipated rainfall is attributed to a strengthening low-pressure system, a monsoon trough, and a more active southwest monsoon. Nattawut emphasized that descriptions of a "mega flood" or predictions of continuous all-day rain are inconsistent with the department's forecasts. The primary concerns are heavy rainfall leading to flash floods, runoff from hills and mountains, and inundation in low-lying or vulnerable areas. The department advised residents in the North, parts of the lower Northeast, East, Central region, Bangkok and its surrounding provinces, and areas near the monsoon trough to closely monitor weather conditions during this period. Additionally, winds and waves in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected to intensify. The Meteorological Department urged the public to follow official weather announcements and forecasts closely and to avoid panicking over information shared on social media without verifying its source. Given that weather conditions can change, people in areas susceptible to flooding and runoff are advised to remain alert and rely on official updates. Source: Pattaya Mail