Thailand’s Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation is warning of potential flooding, waterway overflows and flash floods at the bases of mountains and in other areas across the country, including Bangkok, from tomorrow (Sunday) until Tuesday.

It predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in the north-eastern, northern, central and southern regions, including Bangkok and surrounding areas, due to the monsoon trough, which is looming over northern Thailand and moving towards a low pressure cell over northern Vietnam, compounded by the south-westerly monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.

Strong winds are forecast for both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf. Waves in the Andaman Sea will average 2-3 meters and over 3 meters in stormy areas.

Areas vulnerable to flash flooding and wider flooding in the northern region include all districts in Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai provinces and some districts in Chiang Rai, Nan, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanuloke, Phetchabun and Uthai Thani provinces.

In the north-eastern region, vulnerable areas include some districts of Loei province, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Surin, Si Sa Ket, Buri Ram and Ubon Ratchathani.

In the central and eastern regions, vulnerable areas include some districts of Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Nayok, Sa Kaeo, Rayong, Chanthaburi, Trat, Lop Buri and Phetchaburi province,s as well as Bangkok.

Tourists are advised not to venture into caves or close to waterfalls during heavy rain and park officials are being advised to close such venues for safety.

The department has also advised authorities to be on standby with men and equipment, to provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies.