Heavy rain since Sunday morning has caused widespread flooding in Thailand’s northern province of Phayao, especially in the Mueang municipal area, including the provincial bus terminal.

Passengers had to wade through flood water in to get in and out of the terminal. The old Phahonyothin Road in front of Boonyuen Temple was temporarily closed to traffic because of the high water level, making it impassable to small vehicles.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rain in 36 provinces today (Monday), as well as storms over 70% of Bangkok, and is advising people living near waterways and in foothills to brace for possible overflows and flash floods.

The rain is due to the arrival of a new cold front from Chinaover northern Thailand today.

Fishermen and sailors are advised to exercise caution and to avoid stormy areas in the Gulf and the Andaman Sea.

60% of the north, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Nan, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, Phitsanuloke and Phetchabun, are expected to see heavy rain today.

Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chainat, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi and Suphan Buri in the central region are also forecast to be hit by heavy rain and strong winds in some areas.

Most southern provinces, from Phetchaburi province south, will see heavy rainfall.