Weather threatens Bangkok’s lifestyle

BANGKOK, 2 April 2013: Thai weather experts warn climate changes will play havoc over the next 30 years to the otherwise comfortable lifestyle of the Thai capital.

They warn that unstable weather conditions such as flooding and unusually heavy rainstorms, strong winds and unbearable high temperatures. This week temperatures in the capital rose to nearly 40 degrees centigrade.

Today, weather is a top concern for tourists planning trips as global warming impacts on seasons that in the past were predictable and stable.

Weather is now a major consideration for visitors. North Thailand is plagued with smog this month driving away visitors after health warnings were posted. If there is no rain before the mid-April Songkran festival, northern destinations will lose considerable tourism-related revenue this month.

In Bangkok temperatures are soaring and getting close to the figures associated with Middle East destinations in summer season. High-rise buildings, the use of reflective glass and traffic pollution all play a part in trapping the heat in the city.

Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) executive director, Anond Snidvongs, said last week that Bangkok has been experiencing more seriously volatile weather conditions in recent years.

“Bangkok residents therefore should prepare for the impact of volatile weather conditions…. heavy downpours and consequential flooding, while years of studies showed that subsidence has been constantly occurring at 2 cm per year.”

The city is sinking and the sea levels are rising due to global warning.

He added: “During the next 30 years, authorities need to prepare prevention and alleviation measures, especially as the sea level continues to rise each year and parts of Bangkok are already below the mean sea level.”

Deputy Dean of the Political Science Faculty Thammasat University, Tawida Kamolvej, said the risks are made worse by a lack of basic knowledge about the city’s natural features and how to solve problems that may emerge in the future.

“Bangkok’s fast pace and crowded lifestyle puts people at risk of fatal danger during a fire or natural disaster for instance.”

She urged the city residents to be more aware and learn how to prevent and reduce risks.

Thailand was hit by a massive flood in 2011 the worst in the 50 years. Bangkok tourism was disrupted with huge losses of revenue.

Although the main attractions in the city were not much damaged, Don Mueang Airport was hit and was closed for six months, the first time in its long history.

Sourced: ttrweekly