Bangkok swelters in 'danger' zone for 19 straight days

Forecast storms to bring some relief

PUBLISHED : 19 Apr 2026 at 17:15

A man leaves the so-called "cooling center" at Benchakitti Sports Centre in Bangkok on April 11. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has launched 304 BKK Cooling Centers, across the city, allowing residents to take refuge from the heat, drink some water and avoid extreme temperatures. (Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya)

Bangkok has sweltered through 19 straight days of dangerous heat index levels, with extreme heat and humidity pushing conditions into a high-risk zone for public health.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) said the heat index has stayed in the “danger” range of 42–51.9°C since April 1. Unlike standard temperature readings, the heat index reflects how hot it actually feels, factoring in humidity.

Officials warned residents to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and watch for symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, rashes, muscle cramps and heatstroke, especially during peak afternoon hours. Vulnerable groups have been advised to seek medical care at the first signs of illness.

At the same time, the Meteorological Department has forecast summer storms through April 25, with Bangkok set to face bouts of thunderstorms and gusty winds.

Storms are expected on Monday and again from April 23–25, bringing strong winds, hail and isolated heavy rain to upper Thailand, the Northeast and the East.

In Bangkok and surrounding areas, hot conditions will persist, with thunderstorms expected to affect 10–30% of the area. Temperatures could reach 39°C in the capital and up to 42°C in the North and Northeast.

Storms are likely to ease briefly on April 21–22 before intensifying again as a high-pressure system from China moves south.

Residents have been urged to avoid open areas, large trees and unstable structures during storms, while mariners are advised to remain ashore as waves could exceed two metres.