The government has issued a warning about the hot weather and the risk of heat-related illnesses. Data from 2025 shows 182 cases and 21 deaths, with the highest numbers in the Northeast region. Most victims worked as laborers outdoors. Prevention methods for heatstroke were also advised.
14 March 2026 GMT+7 Ms. Airin Panrit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that Thailand's hot season causes weather changes. According to data from the Digital Disease Surveillance (DDS) system of the Department of Disease Control, in 2025 there were cases of heat-related illnesses, totaling 182 cases. Most were male (59.3%) and prevalent in the working-age group 15-34 years old with 78 cases (42.8%), followed by 29 cases (15.9%) in those aged 60 and over. Most worked outdoors, such as soldiers and general laborers (53.3%), groups at high risk of heat exposure.
Furthermore, most patients experienced heat exhaustion, with 62 cases (34.07%), followed by heat syncope (fainting from heat) with 43 cases (23.63%). There were also 26 cases (14.29%) of heat cramps. Heat stroke, the most severe condition, was reported in 17 cases (9.34%) of all patients.
Regarding surveillance of deaths related to hot weather by the Epidemiology Division in 2025, there were 21 deaths total: 18 males and 3 females, aged 27 to 79 (average 51 years). Among them, 28.5% were laborers. Deaths occurred across 16 provinces, including 5 in Udon Thani, 2 in Nakhon Ratchasima, and one each in Kamphaeng Phet, Chonburi, Chainat, Chaiyaphum, Nonthaburi, Buriram, Phatthalung, Maha Sarakham, Lopburi, Lampang, Samut Songkhram, Sa Kaeo, Surin, and Uthai Thani. By region, the Northeast had the highest proportion of heat-related deaths at 52%, followed by the Central and Western regions at 24%.
Additionally, 24% of the deceased had underlying conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Significant risk factors included alcohol consumption. Sixty-seven percent of deaths occurred outdoors. Monthly data showed April had the highest death rate at 57%, coinciding with the hottest month.
1. Avoid outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
2. Outdoor workers should take regular breaks in the shade to allow the body to release accumulated heat.
3. Avoid alcoholic, caffeinated (coffee, soda), and high-sugar drinks.
4. Drink enough clean water before feeling thirsty—at least one glass (250 cc) every hour or 1,500 cc daily. If sweating heavily, consume electrolyte drinks.
5. Wear breathable clothing; avoid dark, tight clothes that trap heat. Choose light-colored, loose-fitting garments.
6. Never leave young children or pets unattended in parked cars under the sun for long periods, as temperatures can rise rapidly within 10-20 minutes without air conditioning.
“The public is urged to monitor weather forecasts and take proper care of their health. If experiencing abnormal symptoms from heat or suspecting heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately to prevent serious complications. High-risk groups include the elderly, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, athletes, and those with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and obesity. Please take close care of your health during extreme heat periods.”