CHIANG RAI – Thailand’s Meteorological Department (TMD) released a summer storm warning for northern Thailand, asking people to get ready for summer storms expected from March 11 to 13, 2026.
The forecast follows several very hot days and scattered storms. This time, the TMD says some areas could see thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, hail, heavy rain in spots, and lightning.
The notice, Weather Advisory No. 1 (15/2026), points to a shifting weather pattern. A high-pressure system (cool air) from China is moving across the upper North, the Northeast, and the South China Sea.
At the same time, moist south and southeast winds are blowing in from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea. Because the region is still hot, the mix of cool air and moisture can trigger unstable conditions and severe storms.
A Summer Storm is Expected to Move North First, Then South
First, the system should hit the Northern Region on March 11. After that, the storm activity is expected to spread across more of upper Thailand.
Provinces in the North, such as Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Nan, Phayao, and nearby areas, may see the first and strongest impacts.
- Northern Region: Storms may bring sudden downpours, strong winds, and hail in some places, especially in upper and higher-elevation areas. Some locations could also get heavy rain in a short time.
- Next areas at risk: From March 12 to 13, the storms may expand into the western Northeast, the Central Region, and the East. Bangkok and nearby provinces could also see stormy weather, although conditions may differ by area.
Meanwhile, heat will still hang on in many places before the storms arrive. Daytime temperatures stayed high through March 10. Even so, mid-week should feel more unsettled as storm chances increase.
Main Hazards to Watch and Simple Safety Steps
The TMD urged residents and local agencies to stay alert because summer storms can turn dangerous fast. Here are the main risks expected during March 11-13:
- Thunderstorms: Widespread storms may form quickly, with heavy rain at times.
- Strong winds: Gusts may knock down weak trees, signs, and loose structures. Be careful near billboards, construction areas, and roadside trees.
- Hail: Some northern areas, and parts of the upper Northeast, may see hail. If possible, move vehicles under cover and protect crops and animals.
- Lightning: Lightning can strike during storms, even when the rain seems light. Stay away from open fields, high points, tall objects, and water during thunderstorms.
- Heavy rain: Some spots may see short bursts of heavy rain, which can cause flooding in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage.
To reduce risk, the department recommends a few practical actions:
- Stay indoors when storms move in, and avoid open spaces and large trees.
- Secure outdoor items, including signs, roofing materials, and tools.
- Farmers should cover or reinforce vulnerable crops, shelters, and livestock areas.
- Keep checking updates from the TMD and local disaster offices.
Hot Season Continues, With Storms Adding to the Swings
This Thailand summer storms March 2026 alert comes as the hot season strengthens. Over the past week, many areas saw high temperatures and earlier warnings across dozens of provinces. The March 11-13 window could bring another sharp shift from heat to stormy weather, following advisories that ended around March 6.
After the storm period, conditions should calm for a time, although hot weather may return by mid-March.
At the same time, agencies such as the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation remain ready to respond to common impacts like fallen trees, brief power outages, and localized flooding.
People in higher-risk areas, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and other northern provinces, should keep an eye on official updates through the TMD website and hotline.
The weather can change quickly during this season. With a little preparation and regular updates, residents can stay safer through this severe weather advisory period in upper Thailand.
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