Tourists in Pattaya enjoy clearer skies as other regions brace for flash floods. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – While much of Thailand braces for heavy downpours and potential flash floods this week, Pattaya stands out with relatively calm skies. According to the Thai Meteorological Department’s 24-hour forecast, the popular beach city is expected to experience partly cloudy conditions with little to no rainfall, making it one of the few tourist hubs likely to remain dry during a wet nationwide forecast. The favorable weather in Pattaya contrasts sharply with forecasts for the North, Northeast, East, and South, where heavy rain is expected in several provinces, especially in mountainous and low-lying areas. Authorities have warned of possible flash floods and forest runoff, urging residents in at-risk zones to remain alert — particularly those living near hillsides, water channels, and flood-prone lowlands. The increased rainfall is being driven by a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam and a moderate-strength southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. As a result, waves in the upper Andaman Sea are reaching heights of 2 meters, with even higher surges in thunderstorm-affected areas. Fishermen and small boat operators are advised to exercise caution and avoid navigating during stormy conditions. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Danas, which had intensified into a typhoon over Taiwan, has since weakened into a strong tropical storm. While the system will not directly affect Thailand, it is expected to strengthen the southwest monsoon in the coming days, which could prolong rainy conditions in many parts of the country. In contrast, Pattaya’s dry spell offers a brief window of pleasant weather, ideal for tourists and locals hoping to avoid the soaking rains sweeping across the rest of Thailand. Still, authorities urge everyone to stay informed as weather patterns remain dynamic.