[Nicke]

BANGKOK, May 31 (TNA) - Thailand will face torrential rain in early June due to the influence of the southwest monsoon, the Meteorological Department warned on Monday.

Most parts of Thailand, particularly the northern, southern and eastern regions, will face heavy rainfall between 2-5 June, according to the weather bureau.

The regions could face 80-90 percent of the rainfall during the period, from 60-80 percent currently, said the Meteorological Department.

The rainy season has started in Thailand and heavy down pours of rain have been reported across the country over the past days.

The weather bureau warned people to be aware of floods and flash floods in coming weeks, particularly those living in lower areas, along the rivers and on the hillsides.

The Meteorological Department said that Thailand would experience torrential rainfall over the next couple of months which should fade in October, as the cold weather begins to creep in.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has announced the city’s preparedness for torrential rain.

Municipal officials estimate that showers under 60 millimetres of rain will dry out within an hour, while those measuring between 60-90 millimetres are likely to drain away within two hours. (TNA)