Wet week forecast for Bangkok

Wet week forecast for Bangkok

Thailand is transitioning from winter to summer - with rain forecast to hit Bangkok over the next week.

The weekly weather forecast released on Sunday predicted a significant chance of rain in Greater Bangkok from Tuesday to Saturday.

Up to 40% of the Bangkok metropolitan area will see rain over the five-day period, with possible downpours between Thursday and Saturday, the Meteorological Department said.

Despite the wet weather, temperatures are expected to climb to 37°C, with the low of 24°C, it added. Temperatures stayed between the late 20s and early 30s for the week ending Sunday.

The summer season normally arrives in late February or early March each year and lasts until May. The exact start is determined by a change in direction of the prevailing winds.

Last year, summer officially began on March 3, according to the department.

Meanwhile, pollution levels around the city are reducing on their own, with most measured locations for the Air Quality Index dropping below law week's danger zone. These are readings late Sunday night.

The level of dust particles in the city will likely decrease, while the levels are expected to stay at the safety standard in all areas of the city today, said permanent secretary of the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry Wijaran Simachaya.

The PCD reported the airborne particulate matter on Wednesday surged above the safety limit of 50 µcg in many areas of Bangkok since last week, a level that can endanger people's health.

Its size of less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter means it can enter the lungs easily if people do not wear masks.

Mr Wijarn said cloud-seeding to make artificial rain to bring down dust levels in Bangkok's five surrounding provinces cannot yet start due to unsuitable weather conditions. Plans are in motion to make rain and let the winds carry rain clouds over the capital.

The five provinces -- Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan and Nakhon Pathom -- have been told not to conduct any agricultural burning.

A drone's eye view from the edge of Lumpini Park. Scattered showers this week should remove much of the remaining pollution. (Photo by Patipat Janthong)


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