The Meteorological Department on We

The Meteorological Department on Wednesday predicted heavy rain and strong winds in the South, the Northeast, the East and the North from July 17 to 20 due to the influence of Typhoon Rammasun. Songkran Agsorn, deputy director-general of the department, said that Typhoon Rammasun had left the Philippines and was centred over the middle of the South China Sea. It would move towards Hainan Island in China on July 18 and 19 and strengthen the southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand. This would result in increased thunderstorms on the western side of the south and upper Thailand.On July 17 and 18, heavy rains are predicted in Loei, Nong Khai, Bung Kan, Udon Thani, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong and Phangnga provinces.
While residents are being warme about damage from flash floods and mudslide, heavy rain could help alleviate a severe water shortage in the country's biggest dams. The orange box in the chart above shows how much water is available for use. As of yesterday, the Bhumibol and Sirikit dams had only 2.15 and 5.19 percent of their capacities available for discharge. Rice farmers were being urged to delay planting their crops.authorities said.