Thailand is bracing for heavy rains and strong winds from Cyclone Mocha, which is expected to hit the country this weekend.
According to Thailand’s Meteorological Department, Cyclone Mocha is currently in the Bay of Bengal and is heading towards northeast Thailand.
Cyclone Mocha will not hit Thailand directly, but after making landfall in Myanmar it will bring heavy rain from today through Monday, with isolated heavy downpours in some areas including Bangkok.
60% of Bangkok and its outskirts are expected to have rain, with isolated heavy showers in some areas.
According to the Thai Meteorological Department, it is expected to reach the Thai coast on Saturday morning and affect the provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae and Lampang first.
47 provinces in Thailand, except the south, are expected to experience continuous rain this weekend, due to southerly and southeasterly winds blowing over northern Thailand.
Cyclone Mocha is classified as a moderate tropical storm, with sustained winds of 65 km/h and gusts of up to 85 km/h. It could cause flooding, landslides and disruption to air and road traffic in affected areas.
Thai authorities have advised residents to stay informed about the weather situation and take necessary precautions to protect their lives and property.
Cyclone Mocha is the first cyclone to hit Thailand this year. It is part of the 2023 hurricane season in the northern Indian Ocean, which runs from April to December. The 2022 hurricane season had been particularly active, with 12 named cyclones, six of which had reached the intense tropical cyclone stage.
Thailand’s Meteorological Department warned that the cyclone could bring strong winds and high waves to the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. He advised small boats to stay ashore until Tuesday.
Thailand’s Meteorological Department has also warned of the risk of flash floods and landslides in at-risk areas.
Cyclone Mocha will bring rain to Thailand until Monday | Thai PBS World