'Rain bombs' revive fears of 2011 floods

Experts warn of shifting patterns

- JUTAMAS TADTHIEMROM

Thailand's recent "rain bombs" have triggered concern about a repeat of the massive floods in 2011 that caused widespread losses, paralysed cities and stung the economy.

On May 25-27, Thailand experienced a repeat of this weather phenomenon, characterised by torrential downpours that cause instant damage.

Last month's rain bombs were caused by a stronger southwest monsoon sweeping across the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, compounded by a strong monsoon crossing upper Thailand and the upper southern region.

The rain bombs followed a series of unusual climate patterns that have occurred in the country since the start of this year.

May is considered an early start to the rainy season. Thailand's summer in April was beset by lower-than-average temperatures, which followed the 7.4-magnitude earthquake in late March with the epicentre near Mandalay, Myanmar.

Statistics from May 1-14 indicated that Bangkok accumulated rainfall of 188.5 millimetres, a 95% increase compared to the average 30-year rainfall of the Drainage and Sewerage Department of 96.7mm.