From “Vegetarianism” to Designing a Sustainable Way of Life

By RISC | 1 day ago

When we think of the Vegetarian Festival, we often associate it with a time of abstaining from meat and animal-based products. The tradition began as a way to minimize harm and avoid disturbing the lives of animals. It also stems from the ancient Chinese belief that during this nine-day, nine-night period, deities descend to protect and bless those who observe the precepts. Traditionally, this practice honors seven Buddhas of the past and two Bodhisattvas, nine divine beings in total.Today, as people place greater emphasis on their health and well-being, the Vegetarian Festival has become a symbolic starting point for those looking to reduce meat consumption and embrace more plant-based foods. It serves as both a motivator and a shared experience — a moment of connection among friends and families who take part together.On the physical health front, meals made from vegetables, fruits, and grains help reduce saturated fat intake while increasing dietary fiber, supporting digestion and lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Research indicates that a diet rich in legumes can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 21% and lower cancer-related mortality by 11%. At the same time, shifting away from meat-based diets can help cut greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 20.2 million tons, promoting both personal and planetary health.Beyond the physical benefits, following a vegetarian diet cultivates self-discipline and mindfulness with every meal. A calm, conscious mind forms the foundation of well-being — encompassing not only physical health but also emotional balance and social harmony. It also nurtures compassion and respect for all living things, key elements of holistic well-being for both body and mind.More importantly, vegetarianism reflects the idea of “designing sustainable behaviors.” Even a small step such as practicing vegetarianism for nine days a year — can make a measurable difference. According to the United Nations (UN), adopting a plant-based diet can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint by 5.75 kilograms of CO₂ per day. Over nine days, that adds up to about 50–55 kilograms of CO₂ — a tangible reduction compared to a typical meat-inclusive diet.Yet beyond the numbers, this practice nurtures awareness and intention — encouraging people to make choices that benefit both their health and the environment. In the context of well-being, sustainable behavior design isn’t about temporary change; it’s about laying the foundation for lasting, meaningful habits — such as choosing fresh, nutritious foods, being mindful of ingredient sources, and reducing resource waste. Together, these actions reflect a genuine effort to live more consciously and sustainably.The Vegetarian Festival, therefore, is far more than a cultural tradition. It represents a small yet powerful beginning — a catalyst for transforming everyday living into a more meaningful, balanced, and sustainable way of life. When we realize that “every choice is a design,” we can turn this annual practice into a lifelong journey toward true sustainability — for our body, mind, society, and the planet.Story by Wacharakorn Maneechote, Sustainable Designer, Well-Being Research Integrations, RISC References byhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2161831323000686 ​https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/19/8228​https://www.un.org/en/actnow/food​

Cut Carbon from Cars—Let’s Drive Less

By RISC | 1 month ago

Did you know that in 2024, global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions reached a record high of around 41.6 billion metric tons, up from 40.6 billion metric tons in 2023?These emissions come from many sectors—energy, industry, agriculture and land use, and transportation. Among them, transportation plays a critical role, not only in global logistics but also in our daily lives, as we continue to depend heavily on cars and other vehicles for mobility.When compared with other sectors, transportation ranks fourth, accounting for about 15% of total emissions—following energy (34%), industry (24%), and agriculture, forestry, and land use (22%).Many people assume cars produce less CO₂ than other forms of transport. In reality, almost half of all transport-related CO₂ emissions come from private cars and vans. This highlights that climate change is not driven only by factories or large-scale industries in major economies—it’s also shaped by the everyday choices we make each time we start the car to commute, run errands, or go shopping.22 September is World Car Free Day—an ideal moment to cut down on car use and embrace public transport. This shift not only reduces emissions and protects the planet but also improves our health by lowering exposure to harmful air pollution.Real estate development can play a key role in this transition. By designing communities that encourage walking and reduce reliance on cars, developers can help lower emissions on a broader scale. The Forestias, for example, has been master-planned with extensive pedestrian pathways, shaded green routes that make walking inviting, and minimized road space so cars are used only when truly necessary. This approach fosters enjoyable walking experiences while promoting both sustainability and healthier lifestyles.Story by Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISCReference byhttps://www.undp.org/thailand/stories/climate-agriculture-ghg​https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint​https://www.statista.com/chart/30890/estimated-share-of-co2-emissions-in-the-transportation-sector/​

Ready for the Rainy Season?

By RISC | 4 months ago

Since the official start of the rainy season, on 15 May, many provinces have experienced continuous rainfall. But have you ever wondered how the Meteorological Department decides this date? 3 criteria must be met: More than 60% of the upper part of Thailand must experience rainfall continuously for at least 3 days. The wind at about 1.5 km above the ground must shift to a southwesterly direction, bringing in moisture from the Andaman Sea to cover Thailand persistently. The wind at about 10 km above the ground must shift to an easterly direction. Rainfall, flooding, and droughts depend largely on the El Niño–La Niña phenomenon. The world is currently in a neutral phase of this cycle and Thailand's overall rainfall this year is expected to be slightly above average, spread widely across regions. But the rainy season raises the risk of illness and accidents and will likely last through October. The heaviest rainfall typically comes in August and September. To stay safe and healthy throughout this season, be prepared and be careful. Take an umbrella when you go out. Wear non-slip footwear. Avoid crowds to escape seasonal illnesses. And make sure your vehicle’s safe to drive in wet conditions. Let’s stay strong and safe through the rainy season. Story by Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISC

Why Isn’t This Year as Hot as Last Year?

By RISC | 4 months ago

Last summer felt a lot hotter—and there’s a reason. It was officially the hottest year on Earth in the past 175 years. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), global surface temperatures in 2023 were 1.55°C (±0.13°C) above the pre-industrial average (1850–1900), primarily due to global warming and an intense El Niño.This record-breaking heat was driven by the highest greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere seen in the past 800,000 years, coupled with warming from the Pacific Ocean during El Niño. The phenomenon began intensifying in 2023 and peaked in early 2024, pushing global temperatures to historic highs—including in Thailand.In fact, Thailand’s average temperature in 2024 hit 28.5°C, making it the hottest year in 74 years, dating back to records from 1951 to 2024.El Niño began to weaken by June 2024, however, and officially ended toward the year’s end. It was quickly followed by a short-lived La Niña, which began in January 2025. This led to a slight drop in Pacific Ocean temperatures and a temporary global cooling effect. But because this La Niña phase ended as early as March, its impact on global temperatures was brief—resulting in a summer this year that, while still warm, hasn’t been extremely hot.Still, while 2025 temperatures may be lower than in 2024, we shouldn’t be complacent. Much of the heat stored in the world’s oceans last year remains—and continues to contribute to long-term above-average global temperatures. This is why reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains an urgent and essential task we must all commit to—now more than ever.Story by Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISCReference byhttps://www.tmd.go.th/climate/summaryyearly​https://www.tmd.go.th/climate/El-Nino-La-Nina?show=25​https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/enso_advisory/ensodisc.shtml?utm_source=chatgpt.com​https://wmo.int/media/news/january-2025-sees-record-global-temperatures-despite-la-nina?utm_source=chatgpt.com​https://wmo.int/news/media-centre/wmo-report-documents-spiralling-weather-and-climate-impacts?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSTl4Vm85Zldwa0NZR1pnVgEeRsIDw0bfpWMgDWSE4OtG631k4VifzWwXia-mk80oEYs4t2Z6HGYAEHXXKyU_aem_6j0-pm_0CQ7VfuQ2MPMdvA#:~:text=The%20clear%20signs%20of%20human,social%20upheavals%20from%20extreme%20weather.&text=WMO's%20State%20of%20the%20Global,doubled%20since%20satellite%20measurements%20began​

How GIS Boosts Urban Well-Being

By RISC | 5 months ago

Over 58% of the global population already live in cities and 68% will likely do so by 2050, according to a UN report. As well as rising population, this urban expansion involves growing city boundaries. City growth could seem positive. But urbanization, without effective urban planning, can threaten well-being, from health to the environment and society. Geo-informatics technology (GIS), however, can give precise and accurate access to spatial data. Systematic collection and spatial analysis in area assessments, urban planning, and decision-making can promote better well-being: Health: GIS can help analyze accessibility to healthcare and the spatial distribution of medical facilities to fully meet the population’s needs. Environment: GIS supports analysis of access to green spaces, helping urban dwellers relax, exercise, and reduce their health risks. It also plays a role in disaster risk assessment—impacting both physical and mental health, quality of life, and financial stability. Furthermore, satellite imagery can be used to monitor air pollution that affects public health. Society: GIS can help identify areas with high crime risks, enabling planning strategies that reduce dangers and enhance safety for urban populations. In addition, geo-informatics technology helps monitor land-use changes through satellite imagery, which can be used to forecast urban growth trends. This contributes to more effective city and infrastructure planning—ensuring cities become inclusive spaces that promote the well-being of all residents. Story by Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISC References: https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/share-of-population-urban?time=latest#sources-and-processinghttps://unhabitat.org/programme/sustainable-development-goals-citieshttps://population.un.org/wup/assets/WUP2018-Report.pdfhttps://www.bot.or.th/th/research-and-publications/articles-and-publications/articles/regional-articles/reg-article-2023-10-09.htmlhttps://www.okmd.or.th/okmd-opportunity/urbanization/256/https://www.sdgmove.com/2021/01/25/sdg-updates-good-health-and-well-being/https://www.sdgmove.com/2023/02/23/disparities-in-thailand-healthcare-services/https://www.gistda.or.th/news_view.php?n_id=5935&lang=THhttps://www.gistda.or.th/news_view.php?n_id=7964&lang=THhttps://www.gistda.or.th/news_view.php?n_id=2450&lang=TH

Emergency Preparedness: How to Survive Disasters

By RISC | 5 months ago

How can we be ready for disasters that could wreck our well-being as well as our homes?The recent earthquake from the movement of the Sagaing Fault between the Indian and Eurasian plates reached Thailand, harming buildings in Bangkok and its metropolitan area. These effects were exacerbated by long-distance seismic waves and soft soil, amplifying tremors into long-period waves.The extent of the damage suggests that Thailand has managed relatively well in terms of preparedness, according to experts. Many buildings have been designed and constructed to legal regulations, helping alleviate immediate concerns.But what if an earthquake has its epicenter in, or far nearer to, Thailand?Not only high-rises but also detached houses, townhouses, shophouses, office buildings, and commercial spaces might suffer extensive damage. Most buildings aren’t currently mandated by law to consider earthquake resistance in their design.The city’s public infrastructure could also come to a standstill. Roads and traffic systems could become unusable. Electricity and water supplies could be cut off. Telecommunications systems—including phone and internet—might collapse. Even a few hours of disruption to the metro system recently caused widespread chaos.Prevention and mitigation are the most effective ways to reduce risk. They include designing new buildings and reinforcing old ones to withstand seismic forces, incorporating fire prevention measures, and flood protection such as raising floor levels, installing flood barriers, or relocating machinery and MEP systems above flood levels.Since natural disasters can strike at any time, we must be prepared not only for earthquakes but also for floods, fires, wildfires, air pollution, chemical explosions, and more.What should we always carry or keep at home?Unlike countries like Japan and the U.S., Thailand has not yet been able to invest heavily in an Earthquake Early Warning System. Without early warnings, disaster preparedness and a clear evacuation plan become essential and urgent.Public buildings, which are responsible for the safety of many people, must be able to respond rapidly and communicate accurately and efficiently. Various agencies provide useful resources for planning and adaptation—such as emergency management handbooks for public buildings and office towers—published by the Building Resource Management Association.Residential homes should maintain readiness by keeping essential items in stock and rotating them regularly.- Drinking water is most critical with at least enough for 3 days (3 liters/person/day) and ideally up to 7 days depending on local conditions and the time needed for external aid or recovery.- Non-perishable food—canned or ready-to-eat meals that do not require cooking or electricity—should provide adequate nutrition, particularly protein.- Sanitation supplies, such as plastic bags for waste.- Emergency bags for each person, including pets, that can be quickly taken if evacuation to a shelter or safe zone becomes necessary.Beyond the initial preparations, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yusuke Toyoda from the College of Policy Science and the Institute of Disaster Mitigation for Urban Cultural Heritage at Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, and a Researcher Alliance member of the Environmental Research Institute at Chulalongkorn University, offers critical insights from Japan’s disaster management experience—lessons Thailand has yet to fully integrate.Victims don’t only die during the disaster. If their mental and physical health deteriorates due to trauma and they are separated from their families or communities while relocated to limited shelters, the isolation may lead to delayed deaths—especially among the elderly. This highlights the need for temporary housing solutions that consider family and community ties to help prevent lonely deaths post-disaster. In short, mental and social preparedness is just as important as physical readiness.Another key point: Analysis from the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in Japan found that 34.9% of survivors saved themselves, 31.9% were saved by family members and 28.1% by friends or neighbors. Only 1.7% were rescued by official emergency teams. This data reinforces the critical importance of self-reliance during disasters. When a crisis hits, government response teams will already be stretched to their limits.All of this reinforces one message: We must strengthen structures, develop mitigation strategies, and create preparedness plans to survive emergencies. The best outcome is when we not only protect ourselves and our families but also become a source of support for our neighbors and community.Written by Saritorn Amorncharuchit, Assistant Director, RISC.Further reading:- Building Resource Management Association. Emergency Management Handbook for Office Buildings During Earthquakes – Tenant Access Protocol (March 30, 2025).https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Dg9PEC5RDRy1gmXfL0gXPTGxx8EBpSWS/view?fbclid=IwY2xjawJcPRxleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHS8G5gyr_NOpaJLwf3MWXmQ289hIrwQRhjKSTndUE9WXcffIWtACD05OPg_aem_6GxVDRjM9gYhWaYn37w3AA​- Building Resource Management Association. Crisis Management Guide for Public Buildings During Earthquakes – For Building Management Teams (March 31, 2025).https://drive.google.com/file/d/16xpcz_ryvs7O_E4uHVtJSnLQjQxYeIge/view?fbclid=IwY2xjawJcPbdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHVjviq9mNJfqqVKtVu9sOaFK_GUhfKpJFaqPW7EkzLHCfkWGkfa7SSx4kw_aem_2kWtm_hbgkGP8pnkBO4USg​- Japan Fire Research Association. Report on the Investigation into the Fires Caused by the 1995 Southern Hyogo Prefecture Earthquake (November 30, 1996).- Japan Living Guide. Disaster Preparedness: Stockpiling and Emergency Food in Japan (January 29, 2024).https://www.japanlivingguide.com/expatinfo/emergencies/emergency-food/​

Earthquakes have occurred before, so why was there so much damage this time?

By RISC | 5 months ago

Bangkok might seem largely free from earthquakes. But the city experienced 35 quakes in the 30 years from 1995 to 2025, according to the Thai Meteorological Department:- 1995–2005: 7- 2006–2015: 17- 2016–2025: 13Most of these tremors were felt in high-rise buildings and were mild to moderate. But the most recent on 28 March was the first to be noticed across the city, causing tall buildings to sway. Buildings under construction also suffered damage. The rise in frequency and intensity makes the issue of earthquakes less remote.Why did this recent quake cause more damage? Bangkok isn’t on an active fault line or in a primary seismic risk zone. But it often experiences tremors from distant earthquakes for several geological reasons:1. Soft Soil: Much of Bangkok (as well as many central provinces) is on ancient sediment from the Chao Phraya River. Soft clay can reach depths of 10–30 meters. This type of soil can amplify seismic waves. When earthquake waves travel from distant locations and reach these soft soil layers, the energy can become amplified at certain frequencies—making tremors more perceptible, especially in tall buildings.2. Low-Frequency Earthquakes: Large, distant earthquakes tend to release low-frequency seismic waves, which can travel up to 1,000 kilometers without significantly losing energy. These low-frequency waves primarily affect tall buildings over 10 stories, while people at ground level might not feel much (as seen in the recent March 28 earthquake). The taller and more flexible a structure is, the more its natural frequency is likely to resonate with the earthquake waves—causing noticeable swaying.Even though tall buildings near the Chao Phraya River face greater risks due to the amplification of seismic waves in soft soil, these risks can be mitigated with proper structural design that adheres to relevant safety standards. You can explore design guidelines for seismic safety in this article (https://mqdc.link/4lfVStr) by Sarithorn Amorncharuchit, a key developer of wellness-focused building design standards under the Research & Innovation for Sustainability Center (RISC).Story by Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, and Ms. Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISCReferences:https://earthquake.tmd.go.th/document.htmlhttps://earthquake.tmd.go.th/documents/file/seismo-doc-1606435108.pdfhttps://op.mahidol.ac.th/rm/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/earthquake_140516.pdf

Resilience “Shock & Stress” Framework

By RISC | 6 months ago

The earthquake reminded us all how being prepared is vital for survival…Natural disasters are part of life and feature in RISC’s "Shock & Stress" Framework in the “Incident & Disaster” subcategory of its “Living & Infrastructure” category. RISC has developed a “Resilience Framework Toolkit” to raise awareness of risks and challenges in 3 key areas:• Nature & Environment• Living & Infrastructure• Society & EconomyThe “Resilience Framework Toolkit” can help you and your organization recognize, understand, and anticipate the impacts of global change. This insight can then guide planning and developing cities and real estate projects—ensuring we’re better prepared and more adaptable in all scenarios, whether at the building, community, or city level.Let’s explore how the “Resilience Framework Toolkit” can be applied from different perspectives. You can now get your own copy of the “Resilience Framework Toolkit”!✅ RISC LINE Official: @risc_center (Price: 600 THB per copy, including shipping)✅ DTGO CAMPUS:• Empty Cup, RISC Office (2nd floor)• Forget-Me-Not Shop (3rd floor) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kGLM3YcccNysnMcW9)​Special offer! Get it for only 500 THB when you buy it in person.

Building Standards for Earthquake Safety

By RISC | 6 months ago

What Lessons Must We Learn from the Earthquake?Earthquakes are rare in Thailand but they’re still important for building structure…How much does structural integrity matter?Why guarantee structural strength when buildings seem to last a hundred years anyway?These questions got their answer on 28 March when the earthquake tested the skills of structural engineers and construction professionals.Design and structural calculation for complex buildings—especially large-scale and high-rise structures, religious buildings, and public-use facilities—are regulated under the Building Control Act B.E. 2522 (1979). These building must comply with earthquake resistance requirements, such as those specified in the Ministerial Regulation on Load, Resistance, and Durability of Buildings and Soils in Earthquake Resistance B.E. 2564 (2021), an updated version of the 2007 regulation, as well as the Ministry of Interior Announcement on Structural Design for Earthquake Resistance B.E. 2564 (2021).The earthquake caused damage ranging from minor to severe—even to recent buildings under the new regulations. Professionals in structural engineering and related disciplines should now re-evaluate standards, analyze deeper issues, and determine how new buildings should be designed going forward.Is the current legislation adequate? Or do we need to revise it? Can we check the effectiveness of building designs and structural calculations before construction using simulations, wind tunnel testing, or other evaluation tools?Should legal provisions set higher safety levels based on site-specific seismic risk assessments?What about residential housing—such as detached homes, townhouses, or shophouses—that are not subject to the structural regulations? How can they be made safer? The Land Allocation Act and the standard contracts for land and housing set a structural warranty—covering foundations, columns, beams, floors, roof structures, and load-bearing walls—for only 5 years from the date of ownership transfer. Should this also be reconsidered?Structural engineering isn’t the only factor affecting occupant safety. Architectural design, interior design, MEP systems, and building components all need thorough re-evaluation as well.As an organization committed to developing sustainable and healthy building design standards, RISC offers the following key earthquake-related design considerations:1. Glass panels – Should not fall when cracked or when the structure shifts. Laminated glass should be used for façades, doors, windows, and railings. Frameless glass doors, especially large ones, should be avoided in high-risk areas.2. Swimming pools – Infinity pools should have barriers at least 1.2 meters high or be set back at least 2 meters from the edge of buildings, to protect users and neighboring properties from accidental falls or overflowing water during emergencies.3. Interior walls – Often concealed by finishes or wallpaper, which may hide moisture, mold, or cracks, making it difficult to assess damage or water leakage.4. Heavy furniture and decorative items – Should be securely anchored to floors or walls. Cabinets should have locks or railings to prevent contents from falling. Items that may swing or shake, like light fixtures, air conditioners, or signage, must have strong anchoring systems.5. Automatic doors – Common in offices and malls, should be designed to remain open during emergencies and be tested regularly.6 Water pipes should not be embedded in structural components – Leaks can be difficult to detect and repair, especially after seismic events. Emergency drainage should be included in communal corridors, especially in condominiums, to prevent flooding of units or elevator machine rooms.7. Evacuation routes – Must be clearly defined, equipped with emergency lighting and signage, and regularly communicated and rehearsed with building occupants.8. Alarm systems and refuge areas – Essential for all buildings, particularly public buildings and high-rises. They provide temporary safe zones while waiting for rescue teams during emergencies.These are just a few examples of standards that could benefit a wider range of buildings. RISC remains committed to research and innovation to support the design and construction of safer, healthier homes and buildings—with the well-being of occupants as the top priority.This real-world test serves as a wake-up call for buildings that were unaffected, or those not yet designed with seismic survival in mind. If public awareness fades and no changes are made, this earthquake will not be the last lesson.Safety isn’t about luck, and standards can’t be negotiated—they must evolve and improve continuously.Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISCFor more information, please visitMinisterial Regulation on Load Bearing, Resistance, and Durability of Buildings and Ground Supporting Structures Against Earthquakes (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/A/016/T_0013.PDF​Ministry of Interior Announcement on Structural Design and Calculation for Earthquake Resistance (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/E/275/T_0016.PDF​Emergency Medical Committee Announcement on Basic Life Support Standards Outside Medical Facilities (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/E/293/T_0057.PDF​Ministerial Regulation on Facilities in Buildings for Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly (No. 2) (2021): https://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2564/A/016/T_0019.PDF​Land Allocation Act (2000): ​https://download.asa.or.th/03media/04law/lsa/lsa43-upd02.pdf​Central Land Allocation Committee Announcement on Standard Form of Land Purchase Agreement (2002): ​https://www.dol.go.th/estate/DocLib18/scan0003.pdf​

Will This Winter Be Cold?

By RISC | 11 months ago

You might have already started to feel a cool breeze early in the morning. It’s a subtle sign that we’re now in winter.But will Thailand actually get cold this year? The best place to look for an answer is the Meteorological Department.Thailand usually enters winter around mid-October when the northeast monsoon begins to cover the country, according to past data. This shift brings unpredictable weather as we leave the rainy season. Before winter officially starts, the department forecasts coming weather patterns and shares this information with the public so you can be ready. This long-range forecast is based on statistical methods and climate models.Long-range forecasting, looking ahead more than 10 days, uses meteorological theories along with data from both ground and upper atmospheric observation systems. These measurements include air temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed and direction. Data from radar and meteorological satellites further enhance the forecast’s accuracy.The seasonal forecast uses the Climate Predictability Tool (CPT) developed by the International Research Institute for Climate and Society at Columbia University. This forecast largely relies on sea surface temperature predictions alongside other meteorological data.So, will it be cold this winter?The Meteorological Department expects winter to start later than usual. Northern Thailand, including the north, northeast, central, and eastern regions, will experience colder weather than last year, with average lows of 20-21°C. In Bangkok, the lowest temperature is expected to be 16-18°C. Surrounding areas may reach 14-16°C. The coldest period will likely be from early December to January. Provinces like Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Loei, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom could see temperatures below 8°C. Meanwhile, southern Thailand may experience some cool areas but will still see lots of rain.The change in the weather may increase the risk of illness. Look after your family, especially children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions. Be sure you’ve got warm clothing for the cooler weather.Story by: Sirapach Mangkang, Geographic Information System (GIS) specialist, RISCReference:https://tmd.go.th/info/%E0%B8%A4%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%A8%E0%B9%84%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%A2​http://climate.tmd.go.th/content/category/4​http://climate.tmd.go.th/content/category/6​