BANGKOK – Thailand is bracing for severe weather impacts as Typhoon Kalmaegi intensifies over the South China Sea, prompting warnings from meteorological experts of potential widespread flooding. Dr. Seri Suparatit, a renowned climate expert and member of the Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change, issued the alert today, noting the storm’s rapid strengthening into a severe typhoon with sustained winds reaching 150 to 185 kilometers per hour.

Heavy Rain Triggers Widespread Flash Flooding Across Bangkok Metropolis and Pattaya

The typhoon, currently tracking west-northwest toward central Vietnam, is expected to make landfall by Friday before weakening into a tropical storm. However, its residual force will directly affect Thailand’s weather systems throughout the weekend. Dr. Seri pointed to the current unusually hot conditions despite the official start of the cool season as an indicator that no protective cold front will mitigate the typhoon’s impact.

Typhoon Kalmaegi left a deadly trail in the Philippines — dozens killed, mass evacuations, widespread flooding and is now headed towards Vietnam https://t.co/Qb6qlOygWU pic.twitter.com/vokMpk3A7H

— Reuters (@Reuters) November 5, 2025

The Meteorological Department has issued specific warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall exceeding 300 millimeters from Friday through Sunday, particularly in northeastern provinces including Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, and Buri Ram, northern provinces such as Nan and Uttaradit, and certain central regions. Dr. Seri highlighted significant flood risks for Ubon Ratchathani and Ayutthaya provinces, where major reservoirs have already reached full capacity and cannot absorb additional rainwater.

Heavy Rain Triggers Widespread Flash Flooding Across Bangkok Metropolis and Pattaya

Authorities have advised residents in at-risk areas to prepare for possible flash floods and river overflows. Mariners have been warned to avoid the Andaman Sea due to anticipated high waves and strong winds, with small vessels advised to remain ashore through Friday. The combined effects of saturated ground conditions and the typhoon’s intense rainfall threaten to create dangerous flooding situations across multiple regions.

-Thailand News (TN)