Nationwide Disaster Preparedness
Activating 24-Hour Monitoring
Thailand has launched a 24-hour “war room” to monitor weather conditions and coordinate disaster response as Tropical Storm Wipha approaches. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued warnings of heavy rainfall across northern and northeastern provinces, with the storm expected to make landfall in northern Vietnam on July 21–22, 2025. This proactive measure aims to mitigate the risks of flooding and landslides, ensuring public safety during the storm’s impact.
Heavy Rainfall Forecast
North and Northeast at Risk
The TMD predicts intense rainfall in Thailand’s North and Northeast from July 22–23, potentially elevating Mekong River levels. A low-pressure trough combined with moist air from the Andaman Sea is set to exacerbate widespread downpours. Provinces like Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong, and Phangnga, along with parts of the Central and Northeastern regions, face heightened risks of flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas and near waterways.
Government’s Swift Action
Interior Ministry’s Directives
Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, acting as National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Commander, has ordered the Ministry of Interior to closely track weather patterns and assess vulnerabilities. Emphasizing clear communication, he aims to curb misinformation and keep the public informed. Provincial governors have been instructed to focus on areas expecting over 90 millimeters of rainfall, flood-prone zones, and regions with inadequate drainage systems.
Strengthening Infrastructure
Reinforcing Riverbanks and Reservoirs
To prevent flood-related disasters, authorities are inspecting and fortifying riverbanks, clearing water obstructions, and optimizing reservoir and waterway management for smooth upstream-to-downstream flow. Emergency teams, equipped with machinery and communication systems, are on standby for rapid response. Residents in high-risk areas are urged to prepare by moving belongings to higher ground or evacuating if necessary.
Multi-Agency Coordination
War Room Unites Key Players
A national-level war room meeting, led by Passakorn Boonyalak of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, brought together the TMD, Office of the National Water Resources, Royal Irrigation Department, and Gistda to evaluate Wipha’s potential impact. This collaborative effort ensures a unified response to the storm’s indirect effects, as Wipha is expected to weaken into a tropical depression after crossing southern China and entering the Gulf of Tonkin.
Public Safety Measures
Alerts for Flash Floods and Runoff
The TMD reported Wipha’s position in Guangdong, China, on July 20, 2025, with sustained winds of 110 km/h, classifying it as a strong tropical storm. As it moves toward Vietnam, its interaction with a strong southwest monsoon will intensify rainfall across Thailand’s North, upper Northeast, Central-West, East, and southern west coast through July 24. Residents near slopes and lowlands are advised to stay vigilant for flash floods and runoff, with updates available via TMD’s 24/7 hotline.
