Ongoing Cold Weather Conditions in Thailand

Low Temperatures Persisting Nationwide

As of January 16, 2025, Thailand continues to experience low temperatures across most regions, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warning of ongoing cold weather. The current weather patterns are influenced by a high-pressure system covering upper Thailand and the South China Sea, which is expected to maintain low temperatures in these areas.

Regional Weather Variations

The northern region is particularly cold, while the northeastern, central, eastern, and upper southern regions—including Bangkok—are experiencing cool to cold weather. Mountain peaks and highlands are forecasted to be very cold, prompting warnings for residents about potential fire hazards due to dry conditions. Travelers are advised to exercise caution in foggy areas.

Increased Rainfall and Storm Activity

Strengthening Northeast Monsoon

From Wednesday through Saturday, the northeast monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand and southern regions is anticipated to strengthen. This will lead to increased rainfall, with heavy rains expected in certain areas. Local residents should prepare for possible flash floods and runoff, especially in foothill regions near waterways and low-lying areas.

Warnings for Coastal Areas

The TMD has issued warnings regarding rising waves in the Gulf of Thailand, where wave heights could reach two to three meters and potentially exceed three meters in stormy conditions. Similarly, the Andaman Sea may experience waves of one to two meters, with offshore waves rising even higher. Small boats are advised to remain ashore until the stormy weather subsides.

Preparing for Severe Weather

Safety Precautions for Residents

Residents across Thailand are urged to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions against potential hazards associated with the ongoing storms and cold weather. This includes being vigilant about fire risks in dry areas and preparing for possible flooding in vulnerable regions.As the weather continues to evolve due to the La Nina phenomenon, experts predict that this summer will not be as hot as previous years, with increased rainfall expected in April and May.

Illegal Foreign Hairdressers Arrested in Bangkok

Authorities Conduct Raid on Sukhumvit Salon

In a significant enforcement action, police apprehended four South Koreans and one Myanmar national for working illegally as hairdressers in a salon located on Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok. The raid occurred on January 15, 2025, at approximately 3:15 PM, following a tip-off regarding foreign nationals engaged in occupations reserved for Thai citizens.

Details of the Arrests

During the operation, officers discovered both Thai and foreign hairdressers operating within the salon, which has not been publicly identified. The arrested individuals included two men and two women from South Korea, aged between 24 and 33, all of whom were in Thailand on 90-day tourist visas. Additionally, a 33-year-old woman from Myanmar was found working without the appropriate permit.

Legal Implications for the Arrested Individuals

The arrested foreign nationals now face serious legal consequences under Thai employment regulations. They have been charged with working in a profession that is strictly prohibited for non-nationals. According to Pol Lt Col Thanakorn Ngamyen from the Khlong Tan station, these individuals could incur fines ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 baht and may also face bans on re-entering Thailand.

Public Awareness and Reporting Mechanisms

In light of this crackdown, authorities are urging the public to report any suspected illegal employment of foreign nationals. Police Maj-General Prasat Khemaprasit emphasized that hairdressing is a profession exclusively reserved for Thai nationals and warned that foreigners on tourist visas are prohibited from engaging in any form of employment. Reports can be made to the Immigration Bureau or local Provincial Immigration Offices.This incident highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to enforce labor laws and protect local employment opportunities amidst rising concerns over illegal foreign labor practices.

Lands Department Denies Nullification of Alpine Title Deeds

Clarification on Media Reports

The Department of Lands (DoL) has firmly stated that the title deeds for the Alpine Golf Club and adjacent residential complex in Pathum Thani province have not been nullified, contrary to recent media reports. The DoL’s director-general, Pornpoth Penpas, emphasized that the deputy permanent secretary for the interior, who holds the authority to sign any nullification orders, has yet to take such action.

Implications of Nullification

If the title deeds were to be nullified, ownership would revert to monastic property, potentially entitling residents and the Alpine Golf & Sports Club Co. to compensation. This scenario was highlighted in a recent article by Isra News, which speculated on the consequences of such a legal shift.

Background of the Land Ownership

The land in question was originally donated by Noem Chamnanchartsakda to Wat Dhammamikaramvoraviharn in 1971. Following her death, the Mahamongkut Ratchawittayalai Foundation sold the property to Alpine Real Estate and Alpine Golf and Sports Club. The current shareholders include members of the Shinawatra family, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra previously holding a significant stake before transferring her shares to her mother.

Political Context and Future Developments

The rumors surrounding the potential nullification stem from an order allegedly signed by Chada Thaised, a former deputy interior minister, shortly before he left office. However, Pornpoth suggested that this action may have been more about exercising caution rather than a definitive step towards nullification. The current authority lies with Chamnanwit Terat, who oversees these proceedings.

Ongoing Uncertainty

As it stands, the situation remains fluid with no formal orders issued regarding the Alpine land. With significant political and financial interests at play, stakeholders are closely monitoring developments in this ongoing saga. The DoL’s reassurances indicate that for now, the title deeds remain intact and valid.