Thailand should prepare for the possibility of a Super El Nino event next year, which could bring extreme heat, drought and other disruptions, a leading climate expert has warned.
In a social media post, Assoc Prof Seree Supratid, director of the Climate Change and Disaster Centre at Rangsit University, said international climate models show El Nino conditions have already developed, with a more than 60% chance of intensifying into a severe event.
He said temperatures in Thailand could rise by 1.5-2.5 degrees Celsius by April next year, increasing the risk of drought in some areas and flooding in others. Intense heatwaves are also possible between March and April.
In Bangkok, average temperatures could reach 39-41C, while the heat index may climb to 50-54C, raising the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Assoc Prof Seree warned that the extreme conditions could strain electricity supplies as demand for AC rises, increasing the risk of localised power outages. Higher temperatures could also accelerate evaporation, reducing water reserves needed for agriculture and ecosystem management.
Outdoor sectors may need to adjust working hours and schedule breaks during the hottest part of the day to protect workers from heat-related health risks.
