The Meteorological Department announced that Thailand is entering the 2026 rainy season officially. It is forecasted that this year will have less rainfall than last year and there may be dry spells during the middle of the season, so citizens and farmers should prepare accordingly.
The 2026 rainy season in Thailand begins on 15 May 2026. This follows meteorological conditions meeting all criteria, resulting in many areas nationwide experiencing continuous rainfall and a tendency for heavy rain in some periods of the season.
Dr. Sukanya Yawichan Director-General of the Meteorological Department officially announced the start of Thailand's 2026 rainy season, stating that from 15 May 2026 onward, the country's weather will shift into the rainy season due to meteorological factors meeting these criteria:
Rainfall: Most areas in upper Thailand experience frequent rain covering more than 60% of the area.
Lower-level wind direction: Winds at about 1.5 kilometers altitude have shifted to "southwest winds," bringing moisture from the Andaman Sea across the country.
Upper-level wind direction: Winds at 10 kilometers altitude and above have changed to "easterly winds."
This announcement signals an important time for the public to prepare for weather conditions, travel, and to be vigilant about flash floods and mountain runoff, especially in risk-prone areas of the North, Northeast, Central, and South regions.
The official entry into the 2026 rainy season on 15 May marks the start of a period of continuous heavy rainfall for several months. Although overall rainfall may be less than last year, risks of heavy rain, flooding, and storms remain in many areas.
Monitoring weather forecasts and warnings from official agencies is crucial for the safety of lives and property nationwide. The public can follow updates and announcements on the Meteorological Department's website.www.tmd.go.th