Bangkok Braces for a Temperature Dip to 15°C as Cool Spell Sweeps Thailand
Northern and northeastern regions will experience even colder weather, with mountaintops seeing frost as Thailand enters a brief winter chill.
Temperatures in Bangkok are expected to drop to 15°C on Monday and Tuesday, marking one of the coldest days in the Thai capital this season.
Seree Supharathit, director of the Centre for Climate Change and Disaster at Rangsit University, confirmed on Sunday that temperatures across Thailand would decrease by an additional two to three degrees Celsius in the coming days.
In Bangkok and its surrounding areas, residents can expect brisk mornings, while the upper northern and northeastern regions might see temperatures plunge to 12°C.
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has attributed this sudden drop to a moderately strong high-pressure system or cold air mass covering upper Thailand, the upper south, and the South China Sea.
This cool spell is forecast to last until January 20, before temperatures begin to warm up again.
Regional Variations and Impacts
The northern and northeastern regions will experience cool to cold weather, with mountaintops and highlands reporting conditions ranging from cold to very cold, potentially with frost in some areas.
Strong winds accompanying the cold air mass will heighten the chill, and residents have been advised to take precautions to protect their health and to be mindful of fire hazards exacerbated by dry and windy conditions.
In Chiang Mai, the picturesque Doi Inthanon National Park reported temperatures as low as 5°C at its summit, 7°C at Kiew Mae Pan, and 9°C at the park office.
Park chief Kriangkrai Chaipiset noted that air quality remained excellent, with PM2.5 pollution levels recorded at zero.
Visitors to Doi Inthanon continue to flock to the park to enjoy the cold weather, misty mornings, and blooming winter flora.
On January 4 alone, nearly eight thousand tourists visited the park, with the majority being domestic travelers.
Broader Climate Context
The global average temperature for this year is projected to remain high, with an estimated increase of 1.41°C compared to pre-industrial levels, slightly lower than the increase of over 1.5°C recorded last year.
The persistent high temperatures reflect broader climate patterns, even as regions like Thailand experience short-term cold spells.
Tourism and Safety Advisories
The cooler weather has bolstered domestic tourism, particularly to mountainous areas like Doi Inthanon, which offer unique seasonal experiences such as sea mists and frost.
Authorities have advised tourists to drive cautiously on winding mountain roads and to prepare for the cold conditions.
Meanwhile, Bangkok residents are bracing for the chill, a stark contrast to the city's usual tropical climate.
As the cold front continues to affect the region, the Thai Meteorological Department will monitor conditions and provide updates to ensure public safety and preparedness.