Heatwave rolls in

Gloomy forecast: soon over 50 degrees in Thailand?

The population in parts of Thailand has been suffering for days under an unusual heatwave for the time of year. But it gets worse: according to forecasts, temperatures in all parts of the country will exceed the 40 degree mark at least some of the time in both March and April. Even what feels like 50 degrees is no longer a utopian idea.

The north of the East Asian country and the capital Bangkok are particularly affected by the current heatwave. In the summer, which began in Thailand at the end of February, temperatures are two degrees higher than normal. 

Heat index causes concern
"The summer temperatures measured in Thailand have never reached 50 degrees so far, and we won't see that this year or in many years to come," explains a weather expert. However, it feels like the temperatures will exceed the dreaded 50-degree mark in the coming weeks.

The Ministry of Health also emphasizes that the heat is "very dangerous", especially for chronically ill people, the elderly and people who are overweight. If the heat index is between 42 and 51.9 degrees, outdoor activities could lead to cramps and exhaustion and increase the risk of heat stroke.

According to the ministry, 131 deaths from heatstroke were recorded in Thailand between 2019 and 2023 - an average of more than 26 per year.