Bangkok: The Meteorological Department has opened a center to closely monitor Tropical Storm Kalmaegi, which is expected to weaken into a depression and move into Thailand on November 7. This is the first storm to hit Thailand this year and is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rain to many areas.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sukanyanee Yawinchan, Director-General of the Meteorological Department, revealed that Typhoon Kalmaegi is currently centered over the central South China Sea, with maximum sustained winds of approximately 150 kilometers per hour. Moving west, it is expected to make landfall in central Vietnam between November 6th and 7th before weakening into a tropical storm and depression. Moving through Laos, it will cover Ubon Ratchathani Province, marking the beginning of heavy rainfall in Thailand.
The Director-General of the Meteorological Department stated that November 7th will be a day of special monitoring, as models show red areas in the rain forecast map, with accumulated rainfall between 100-150 millimeters, and possibly as high as 200 millimeters in some areas, especially in the lower northeastern region, including:
Ubon Ratchathani, Amnat Charoen, Yasothon, Sisaket, Roi Et, Maha Sarakham, Surin, Buriram, and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces are all in the “red” level of the model, indicating the highest rainfall and a high chance of flash floods.
In addition, rain clouds from the storm system will expand to cover the upper Northeastern, Central, Eastern regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity, where widespread heavy rain is possible from November 7-9.
The Meteorological Department warns that accumulated rain over several days could cause water levels to rise, particularly in low-lying areas and hillsides in the lower northeastern and eastern regions. Meanwhile, continued rain from last week has left the ground moist, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides.
Ms. Sukanyanee said that tonight (November 6th) into tomorrow night, clouds from the storm will begin to spread in, causing rain to begin in many areas before the storm clearly enters Thailand on November 7th. She urged all areas, particularly the lower northeastern region, to prepare for the storm in advance.
After Typhoon Kalmaegi dissipates, the weather in upper Thailand will begin to cool down, particularly in the northern and upper northeastern regions, where temperatures will continue to drop. The coldest months of the season are expected to be from December to January, with very cold weather expected on mountaintops and hilltops.