Thunderstorms, strong winds and hail are expected in the North, Northeast, East and the Central Region including Bangkok, from Sunday to Tuesday as the country moves into the summer season.

The Meteorological Department said thunderstorms are forecast and strong winds are moving into the northern region.

It said the weather system would cause thunderstorms during this period, with hail and lightning also possible.

The Pollution Control Department (PCD), meanwhile, has warned of high levels of hazardous ultra-fine PM2.5 dust particles in the capital and surrounding provinces from March 14-16.

The PCD said the air quality is expected to improve from Sunday due to winds from the South, but may worsen again in the following days.

All areas in the 17 northern provinces recorded a higher level of PM2.5 yesterday, ranging from 91 to 136 microgrammes per cubic metre (μg/m³). The highest level was in Sukhothai.

Bangkok's air quality was moderate, with PM2.5 levels slightly dropping. However, levels that exceeded the safety threshold of 50 μg/m³ were reported in 89 areas.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha yesterday urged farmers to stop burning crops to help tackle the dust pollution.