Temperatures across Thailand are forecast to drop by 2^oC to 8^oC from Wednesday until next Monday, due to the arrival of another strong cold front from China, the Meteorological Department said this afternoon.

According to the department, the mercury in north-eastern provinces is predicted to drop by 5-8^oC during the period, by 4-6^oC in northern provinces, by 3-5^oC in the central region, including Bangkok and its vicinity, by 3-5^oC in the eastern provinces and by 2-4^oC in the south.

Residents in the affected areas are warned of the possibility of fires, due to strong winds and dry weather.

The extreme southern provinces will see heavy to very heavy downpours. Those living at the bases of mountains and in low-lying areas are advised to brace for flash flooding and watercourse overflows. 2-4 metre waves are forecast in the Gulf of Thailand and over 4 metres in stormy areas from December 22 to 25.