Thailand has issued a nationwide weather alert, warning residents and tourists to prepare for heavy rainfall, flash floods, and rough seas from August 30 to September 3, 2025. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reports that the combination of a strong southwest monsoon, a monsoon trough, and an approaching tropical system is creating high-risk conditions across the country.
Authorities are urging the public to remain alert, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas, as the chance of sudden flooding and landslides increases. Travelers are also being advised to check local updates and take extra caution when traveling through affected areas.
Causes of the Severe Weather
The current weather disturbance is driven by a strong southwest monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, the Gulf of Thailand, and much of the Thai mainland. Additionally, a monsoon trough is bringing active rain clouds across the upper North and Northeast regions.
Meteorologists have also confirmed that a tropical depression over the central South China Sea is gaining strength and is expected to intensify into a tropical storm. This system is forecast to make landfall in northern Vietnam around August 30 before moving across Laos and into northeastern Thailand by evening. This will bring widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated strong winds and thunderstorms affecting multiple provinces.
Regions Facing the Greatest Impact
- Northern and Northeastern Thailand: Provinces such as Chiang Mai, Nan, Loei, and Sakon Nakhon are expected to experience intense rainfall and the possibility of flash floods and landslides. Mountainous areas and river basins are at particularly high risk.
- Central Thailand: Areas including Kanchanaburi, Lopburi, and Saraburi should prepare for thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, which may disrupt local travel and trigger flooding in low-lying zones.
- Eastern Thailand: Provinces such as Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat are likely to be affected by torrential rains, with risks of flooding and transportation interruptions.
- Southern Thailand (West Coast): Coastal provinces like Ranong and Phang Nga face ongoing rainfall and thunderstorms, with inland flooding and hazardous road conditions possible.
- Southern Thailand (East Coast): Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat are expected to see severe weather, particularly in coastal communities and flood-prone areas.
Coastal and Marine Warnings
The TMD has issued warnings for dangerous maritime conditions as strong winds generate high waves. Waves in the upper Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand are expected to reach 2 to 3 meters, and higher than 3 meters during thunderstorms.
Small boats are strongly advised to remain ashore during this period. Larger vessels should proceed with extreme caution. Beachgoers and tourists participating in water activities are urged to postpone trips or cancel plans until conditions improve. Local authorities are closely monitoring coastal areas for signs of storm surges and will issue evacuation orders if necessary.
Aftermath of Tropical Storm Kajiki
This severe weather comes as Thailand continues to recover from the devastating impacts of Tropical Storm Kajiki earlier in the week. Kajiki caused landslides and flooding in several northern and northeastern provinces, resulting in multiple fatalities and leaving several people missing. Thousands of residents were displaced, and infrastructure damage is still being assessed in affected communities.
With the ground already saturated from previous rains, the risk of additional flooding and landslides remains significantly high.
Safety Guidelines for Residents and Travelers
Authorities are strongly encouraging both residents and tourists to stay informed and take necessary safety measures:
- Avoid flood-prone areas and riverbanks during heavy rain.
- Postpone outdoor activities such as trekking, boating, and other high-risk adventures until conditions stabilize.
- Prepare emergency supplies such as clean drinking water, non-perishable food, and first-aid kits.
- Monitor official weather updates frequently for timely evacuation instructions or safety alerts.
- Motorists are advised to drive carefully, avoid waterlogged roads, and plan alternative routes if needed.
Preparedness and Response Efforts
Local authorities across the country have activated emergency response teams to manage high-risk areas. Evacuation plans are in place for communities most vulnerable to flooding and landslides. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation is working closely with provincial offices to provide shelters and relief supplies where needed.
Efforts are also underway to secure infrastructure, protect critical transport routes, and maintain communication systems in case of widespread flooding. Citizens are being reminded to remain calm but vigilant, ensuring that preparedness measures are in place in both urban and rural areas.
Outlook
From August 30 to September 3, Thailand is expected to face intense weather conditions, including torrential rains, flash floods, and strong winds. With saturated ground and overflowing rivers in many provinces, the risk of disaster remains high.
For tourists and residents alike, heightened awareness and proactive safety measures will be key in minimizing risks. Officials continue to stress the importance of adhering to safety advisories and cooperating with local authorities as Thailand navigates through this challenging period of severe weather.
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