Safety
Heavy Rainfall Alert Issued for Western and Central Thailand
Dr. Seri Supratit warns of heavy rain in western provinces, urging caution while dismissing fears of a repeat of the 2011 floods.
On September 26, 2026, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seri Supratit, Director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University, issued a warning regarding significant rainfall moving toward western Thailand. According to Khaosod Online, data from the Climate and Disaster Center and the National Disaster Warning Council indicates that several areas have recorded over 300 mm of cumulative rainfall between September 25 and 26.
Dr. Seri highlighted that heavy to very heavy rain is expected to persist, particularly affecting Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Uthai Thani, and Suphan Buri. Residents and travelers in these regions are advised to monitor local weather updates closely, as the situation poses a risk of flash floods and water runoff.
Despite the severity of the current weather, Dr. Seri emphasized that the situation is not expected to mirror the catastrophic floods of 2011. He clarified that a major flood event would typically be signaled by water overflowing embankments due to northern runoff, a condition not currently present. While the immediate forecast calls for continued heavy precipitation, the center criticized a perceived lack of risk assessment by some agencies in notifying the public. Travelers planning trips to western or central provinces should remain vigilant and check for local warnings before proceeding.
