Heatwave Strikes Thailand: Focus on Energy

Thai authorities warned residents in several areas of the country, including the capital Bangkok, against going outside due to extreme heat. The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department in Thailand reported that temperatures would exceed 40 degrees Celsius in at least 28 provinces on Saturday. Government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri noted that the recent severe heatwave caused record electricity consumption, reaching 39,000 megawatts on April 6, surpassing the previous record of 32,000 megawatts in April of last year. Parts of Asia have experienced a significant rise in temperatures this month, with some countries recording record highs. In Bangladesh and parts of India, extreme temperatures are increasing energy demand, leading to power outages and electricity shortages for millions of people. According to the Meteorological Department, temperatures reached 42 degrees Celsius in the Bangna area of Bangkok, while the heat index—considering humidity and perceived temperature—registered 54 degrees Celsius.