People living in Bangkok, other central provinces, eastern and southern regions of Thailand are advised to expect heavy to very heavy rainfall from November 22^nd-24^th, as a result of an intensifying low pressure cell.

Thailand’s Meteorological Department reported today (Friday) that a low pressure cell, looming over the coast of Borneo, is moving towards the South China Sea and intensifying as it heads towards the southern tip of the Vietnamese Peninsula and into the Gulf of Thailand.

It predicts that the storm will bring heavy to very heavy downpours to the southern part of Thailand’s central region, including Bangkok.

The Weatherman also warned of possible flash flooding at the bases of mountains and overflows in low-lying areas close to natural waterways during the period.

Rough seas and strong winds are forecast in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand from Monday until Thursday, with waves 2-3 metres high in the Gulf down to Surat Thani and more than 3 metre high waves in the Andaman Sea north of Phuket.

Meanwhile, in Phuket, torrential rain struck Krathu district yesterday and, in less than an hour, the famous Patong sub-district was flooded. Runoffs from the mountains submerging roads in front of Patong Hospital, the police station, the municipal office and many communities in the Patong area.  The flood water receded by about 3pm.

Patong’s Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri said he will discuss long-term solutions to the flooding in Patong area with relevant agencies, noting that the area was hit by flooding several times over the past two months.

Nonetheless, tourists continue to stream into Phuket, with Oman Air becoming the latest airline to operate four direct flights per week, from Muscat, the Omani capital, to Phuket. The maiden flight arrived in Phuket yesterday carrying 160 passengers.

According Tourism Authority of Thailand local staff, Oman’s population of about five million is a high potential market for tourism to Thailand, with many Omanis travelling to Phuket for wellness services and recreation before the COVID-19 pandemic.