Tropical storm Noru is expected to hit Thailand’s north-eastern provinces of Mukdahan and Amnat Charoen this Thursday, after it swept through Vietnam and Laos. The storm is forecast to bring heavy rain to Thailand, similar to the Dianmu storm in September last year.
Noru, the first tropical storm to hit Thailand this year, packing winds speed of up to 140kph at its centre, is moving westward at a speed of 25kph and is anticipated to make landfall in central Vietnam this Wednesday, according to the Thai Meteorological Department.
The approaching storm will strengthen the south-westerly monsoon, which is looming over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, and this will bring widespread heavy rain and isolated very heavy rain to most parts of Thailand, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, from Wednesday through Sunday.
People living at the bases of mountains are warned of flash floods, while those living near natural waterways are advisedto brace for possible waterway overflows.
Small vessels are advised to remain ashore during the period,due to stormy seas and high waves, in both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf.