Bangkok: Thailand is bracing for an unprecedented weather crisis in 2026, with predictions of experiencing three seasons in a single day, as the nation faces the most severe El Ni±o conditions ever.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Sonthi Kochawat, an environmental and health expert from the Thai Environmental Academics Club, highlighted in an interview on MCOT NEWS FM 100.5 that Asian countries, including Thailand, are likely to be significantly impacted by the worsening weather patterns. Thailand's proximity to the equator means it receives direct sunlight, and temperatures in northern regions such as Lampang, Chiang Mai, and Mae Hong Son are anticipated to soar up to 42 degrees Celsius. Concurrently, rainfall is expected to diminish by approximately 30-40%.
The situation is exacerbated by the developing El Ni±o phenomenon, which results in Southeast Asia experiencing hotter and drier conditions. This, coupled with global warming and elevated sea surface temperatures in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, contributes to a Heat Index that is markedly higher than actual temperatures. Late April, particularly April 27-28, when the sun is directly overhead, is expected to see some of the most extreme temperatures.
Dr. Sonthi emphasized that the risk of extreme heat is highest between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, with the peak around 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM due to intense ultraviolet radiation. When air temperatures are around 36 degrees Celsius with 60% relative humidity, perceived temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius, posing serious health risks such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
The erratic weather patterns could also lead to volatile transitions, where some areas might experience three different seasons within a single day. The likelihood of summer storms rises as hot and cold air masses collide. Additionally, the threat of wildfires in the northern regions increases, as does the risk of fires from overloaded electrical equipment or objects concentrating light, like water bottles or sunglasses left in vehicles.
Furthermore, the impending drought is a significant concern, with a forecasted 30-40% drop in rainfall and reservoir levels already reduced by over 60%. Water conservation and vigilant monitoring of weather conditions will be crucial in the coming months.