Bangkok, August 24th, 2025– Thailand’s Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has ordered governors nationwide and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to prepare for the potential impact of Tropical Storm Kajiki, now upgraded to a typhoon as of this afternoon, which is currently gathering strength in the South China Sea. As Director of the National Command Centre for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Phumtham stated the government’s commitment to public safety, with emergency support services available 24 hours a day to assist affected communities.
According to the Thai Meteorological Department, Tropical Storm Kajiki is located approximately 570 kilometers from Dong Hoi, Vietnam, in the upper South China Sea. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding to parts of Thailand, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions, as it moves westward. Authorities have warned that coastal areas may experience rough seas and storm surges, urging residents to stay vigilant. Although it will not be directly hitting Thailand and far North, associated rains and winds will impact many areas, especially in the North. Notably, Chonburi is not expected to have much impact.
Phumtham has directed local authorities to activate disaster preparedness plans, including the deployment of emergency response teams, stockpiling of essential supplies, and the establishment of evacuation centers where necessary. The BMA has been tasked with ensuring that Bangkok’s drainage systems are cleared to mitigate the risk of urban flooding, a recurring issue in the capital during heavy rains.
The storm’s approach comes as Thailand continues to recover from recent monsoon-related flooding in several provinces. The government has allocated emergency funds to support affected regions, with additional resources now being mobilized in anticipation of Kajiki’s impact.
Posts on social media reflect growing public concern, with users sharing updates about the storm’s trajectory and local preparations. One user in Chiang Mai noted that local authorities were distributing sandbags to residents in flood-prone areas, while another in Bangkok reported increased activity at drainage canals. These grassroots reports align with official statements urging residents to monitor weather updates and follow evacuation orders if issued.
The Thai government has also coordinated with regional partners, including Vietnam and Laos, to share meteorological data and ensure a cohesive response to the storm. Kajiki is expected to weaken as it moves inland but could still cause disruption in Thailand’s rural and urban areas.
Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels, secure property, and avoid travel in high-risk areas. Emergency hotlines remain active, and the National Command Centre has assured the public that relief efforts will be swift if the storm causes damage.
For further updates, the Thai Meteorological Department and the BMA will provide regular briefings as Kajiki approaches.
Tropical Storm Kajiki is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding to 55 provinces across Thailand from August 24 to August 27, 2025. The affected provinces, as outlined by the Thai Meteorological Department and other sources, span multiple regions:
**Northern Region**: Nan, Lampang, Phrae, Tak, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Phayao, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son.
**Northeastern Region**: Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Udon Thani, Loei.
**Central Region**: Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Lop Buri.
**Eastern Region**: Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chanthaburi, Trat, Rayong.
**Southern Region (East Coast)**: Phetchaburi, Surat Thani (northern parts), Nakhon Si Thammarat (southern parts).
**Southern Region (West Coast)**: Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket.
**Bangkok and Surrounding Areas**: Bangkok and its vicinity are also expected to experience heavy rainfall, particularly in the afternoon and evening.
These provinces are at risk of flash floods and landslides, especially in low-lying areas, near foothills, or along waterways, due to the storm’s heavy rainfall and a strengthened southwest monsoon.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
