Cold spell lingers in Thailand’s northern parts

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The mercury continues to drop in Thailand’s upper parts, wreaking havoc on residents struggling to cope with the cold weather.

The northeastern province of Nong Khai has been declared a disaster zone as the mercury in many districts has dropped below 15 degree for more than three consecutive days. Local authorities are disbursing emergency funds to assist those affected by the cold snap.

In Amnart Charoen, 50,000 households have reportedly been affected by the worsening cold spell. Many are without warm clothes or blankets.

A high pressure cell from China will prevail over Thailand until December 29, lowering temperature in the northern regions down to 16 degree Celsius. In mountainous areas, the temperature plunges to below 8 degree Celsius, with frost spotted on many peaks, said the Meteorological Department.

The Meteorological Department has also predicted that the strong pressure front will weaken after December 30, bringing the temperature up slightly in many parts of the country.

Source: http://thainews.prd.go.th/CenterWeb/NewsEN/NewsDetail?NT01_NewsID=WNEVN5612250010001