Football Association of Thailand Issues New Lightning Safety Protocols

The Football Association of Thailand (FA Thailand), through Secretary-General Ekkapol Polnavee, has issued an official directive to all professional football clubs, match commissioners, and referee development directors regarding safety protocols during lightning and thunderstorm events. This measure aims to protect players, team staff, officials, and spectators from the risks associated with lightning strikes at match venues.

Under the new guidelines, if the interval between a lightning flash and the subsequent sound of thunder is 30 seconds or less, it is classified as a dangerous condition. In such instances, referees or match officials are required to temporarily suspend the game. Players, staff, and officials must immediately evacuate to designated safe areas or locker rooms, while spectators are to be directed to pre-arranged secure shelters.

Following a suspension, officials will continuously monitor weather conditions. The decision to resume play will only be made after a thorough assessment of safety and weather stability by the referee and match control team.

For residents and travelers attending matches, these protocols mean that games may be subject to sudden delays or interruptions during Thailand’s rainy season. While these rules provide a structured approach to managing weather-related risks, the specific criteria for resuming play after severe weather conditions persist remain subject to the ongoing evaluation of match officials on the ground.