As Thailand approaches the Songkran festival, the Meteorological Department has issued a forecast indicating the likelihood of severe weather, including thunderstorms and hail, particularly in upper Thailand.

The anticipated conditions are expected from April 12 to April 14, coinciding with the festival celebrations.

The department's advisory, released on April 8, highlights the possibility of strong winds and heavy precipitation affecting various regions.

A low-pressure area is projected to create extremely hot and humid conditions across northern parts of the country in the days leading up to the festival.

According to the Meteorological Department, the influence of the Southwest monsoon will contribute to localized thunderstorms in certain areas.

Following this, a cold air mass originating from China is expected to move into the Northeast and the South China Sea, which may exacerbate weather instability, leading to the high possibility of summer storms.

In addition to inclement weather, residents in southern Thailand have been warned about the impact of westerly and northwesterly winds affecting the Andaman Sea and coastal areas.

These winds are likely to generate sea waves reaching heights of up to 1 metre in the Andaman Sea and between 1 to 2 metres in the Gulf of Thailand from April 9 to April 14.

In preparation for the anticipated storm conditions, the Meteorological Department has advised residents in the upper regions to minimize travel during the storm period and urged caution around large trees and unstable structures, particularly during thunderstorms.

Farmers are also encouraged to take measures to protect their crops against potential storm damage.