Thailand warns of flash floods and landslides in Bangkok, 35 provinces as heavy rain threatens until Oct 25

BANGKOK, Oct 18 — Thai authorities have warned of possible flash floods and landslides across Bangkok and 35 provinces as heavy to very heavy rain threatens large parts of the country until October 25.

The Thai Meteorological Department said the wet weather would initially affect southern and eastern Thailand before spreading to Bangkok, central Thailand and other regions from October 21 to 25.

The warning comes as Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) placed 35 provinces and the capital on alert, with local authorities instructed to prepare emergency response teams and equipment, according to The Nation.

Persistent rainfall is forecast in the south and east from October 18 to 20, with some areas expected to experience heavy to very heavy downpours.

From October 21, rainfall is expected to intensify across the lower northeast, central region, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, the east and upper south, accompanied by occasional strong gusts of wind.

The department warned that prolonged rainfall could trigger flash floods, sudden runoff from higher ground and landslides, particularly in low-lying areas and communities near foothills and waterways.

Residents have been urged to monitor weather updates and avoid roads prone to repeated flooding.

According to The Nation, eastern provinces including Chonburi and Rayong could face very heavy rainfall on October 21 and 22, while southern tourist destinations such as Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi are forecast to experience intense downpours later in the week.

The meteorological department has also warned of hazardous conditions at sea, with waves potentially exceeding three metres during thunderstorms in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand.

Boats have been advised to navigate cautiously and avoid areas affected by thunderstorms.

The unsettled weather is being driven by a monsoon trough over southern Thailand and the southwest monsoon affecting the lower Andaman Sea.

The trough is expected to shift northwards as a high-pressure system from China extends over northern and northeastern Thailand and the South China Sea.

Thailand has already experienced widespread flooding in recent weeks. According to Reuters, floods had killed 71 people since September 16 and affected 51 provinces as of October 12, with about 908,000 households affected.

The latest warning comes as Thailand transitions from its rainy season towards the cooler months, when shifting weather systems can still bring heavy rainfall.

Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow official weather advisories.