Bangkok: Tropical Storm Bualoi is expected to make landfall in Vietnam on September 29, with rain already beginning to fall in the Northeast. The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for multiple provinces in Thailand to prepare for heavy to very heavy rain from September 28-30 due to Typhoon Bualoi’s influence. Although the storm’s center is unlikely to directly impact Thailand, its periphery will bring significant rain, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides, and mudslides during this period.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somkuan Tonjan, Director of the Meteorological Department’s Weather Forecasting Division, stated that as of 4:00 a.m. on September 28, Typhoon Bualoi was centered approximately 170 kilometers east of Da Nang, Vietnam, with sustained winds of around 120 km/h, moving slightly west-northwest at 30 km/h. The storm is expected to weaken after making landfall.
The forecast indicates that while the storm’s center will not directly affect Thailand, the storm’s edges will begin to impact the region today. This coincides with a strong monsoon trough passing through the northern, upper central, and northeastern regions. Additionally, the strong southwest monsoon prevailing over Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand is contributing to heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly in the northern, northeastern, and monsoon-affected regions such as the eastern and western coasts of the southern region.
Areas that have experienced heavy rain in the past three days include the eastern part of the northeastern region, such as Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Mukdahan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Nong Khai, and Bueng Kan on September 28. On September 29, the upper north-northeastern region, including Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Phetchabun, Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, and Chaiyaphum, is at risk. On September 30, heavy rain is expected in the upper northern and western regions such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Lamphun.
Additionally, rain from the monsoon trough and southwest monsoon will affect Bangkok, surrounding provinces, the central region, the eastern region, and the Andaman coast of the southern region, increasing the likelihood of heavy rainfall.
Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain cautious due to the potential for continued heavy rain, which could result in flash floods, forest runoff, and landslides, especially in mountainous, low-lying, and previously flooded regions.
The Meteorological Department will continue to monitor the situation and issue warnings as needed. The public is encouraged to stay informed and avoid spreading or reacting to rumors.