On April 16, 2025, Thailand experienced a record-breaking heat wave, with the highest temperature soaring to 39.5 degrees Celsius in Mueang Sakon Nakhon District, Sakon Nakhon Province. This extreme weather event has drawn attention as the country grapples with rising temperatures attributed to climate change.
The Thai Meteorological Department reported that Bangkok and its surrounding areas recorded a temperature of 36.5 degrees Celsius in Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani. This marked a significant spike in temperature, prompting concerns over public health and safety as residents brace for more heat in the coming days.
In addition to the sweltering heat, the country also faced varying rainfall across regions. Between 7:00 AM on April 16 and 7:00 AM on April 17, the highest rainfall was recorded at 148.4 mm in Wiang Chai Buri District, Phetchabun Province. Conversely, Bangkok saw only light rainfall, measuring 6.5 mm at the Praewa Canal-Bang Chan water station.
The temperatures reported on April 16 were notably high across the country, with the top ten recorded temperatures including:
- 39.5 degrees Celsius at Huy Yang, Mueang Sakon Nakhon District, Sakon Nakhon Province
- 39.0 degrees Celsius at Mueang Mukdahan District, Mukdahan Province
- 38.7 degrees Celsius at Bua Chum, Chai Badan District, Lopburi Province
- 38.6 degrees Celsius at Mueang Mae Hong Son District, Mae Hong Son Province
- 38.5 degrees Celsius at Kho Kho, Mueang Surin District, Surin Province
- 38.5 degrees Celsius at Suang Wirawong, Ubon Ratchathani Province
- 38.5 degrees Celsius at That Ching Chum, Mueang Sakon Nakhon District, Sakon Nakhon Province
- 38.4 degrees Celsius at Mueang Si Sa Ket District, Si Sa Ket Province
- 38.3 degrees Celsius at Mueang Ubon Ratchathani District, Ubon Ratchathani Province
- 38.2 degrees Celsius at Kamalasai District, Si Sa Ket Province
This recent heat wave has positioned Thailand as the 10th hottest country in the world as of April 16, 2025. Experts warn that such extreme weather patterns could become more frequent due to climate change, leading to serious implications for agriculture, water resources, and public health.
Looking ahead, forecasts from the Thai Meteorological Department indicate that from April 16 to April 22, the northern region will experience generally hot weather with isolated thunderstorms expected in 10-30% of the area. Temperatures are predicted to range from 21 to 28 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures between 33 and 41 degrees Celsius.
The northeastern region is also set to face similar conditions, with a 10-30% chance of thunderstorms and maximum temperatures reaching 39 degrees Celsius. In the central region, temperatures will likely range from 34 to 41 degrees Celsius, with thunderstorms affecting 20-40% of the area.
The eastern region will see hot weather, particularly in the upper parts, with thunderstorms forecasted for 20-40% of the area. Coastal areas will experience wave heights of approximately 1 meter, with higher waves exceeding 2 meters during thunderstorms.
In the southern region, particularly on the eastern coast, there is a 40-60% chance of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall from April 16 to April 18. Following this, the chance will decrease to 30-40% from April 19 to April 22, with maximum temperatures ranging from 29 to 36 degrees Celsius.
Residents across Thailand are urged to take precautions against the heat, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The government has emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
As Thailand continues to navigate through these extreme weather conditions, the impact of climate change remains a pressing concern. The government is expected to implement measures aimed at mitigating the effects of rising temperatures, including public awareness campaigns and infrastructure improvements to cope with severe weather.
In summary, the recent heat wave in Thailand, coupled with significant rainfall in some areas, highlights the urgent need for action against climate change. With rising temperatures becoming a frequent occurrence, it is imperative that both the government and citizens work together to address the challenges posed by this global crisis.
