Hailstorm Turns Khao Kho White as Summer Storms Batter Phetchabun

Severe summer storms struck several districts in Phetchabun province on 18 April, with heavy rain and prolonged hailstorms reported in Khao Kho, leaving the ground covered in ice. Authorities said the downpours helped extinguish multiple wildfire hotspots that had previously been difficult to control. No immediate damage reports were confirmed, although some agricultural losses were noted.

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The storms affected areas including Mueang, Lom Sak, Lom Kao, Nam Nao, and Khao Kho districts. In Khao Kho, particularly near Ang Rattanai, hail fell for more than 30 minutes, creating a white blanket across the ground. Local resident Bodin Kaewyai said the day had started with intense heat before clouds gathered around midday, followed by strong rainfall and significant hail.

The sudden weather change brought cooler temperatures and increased moisture to the area. However, the hail caused damage to farmland, especially cabbage plots already facing low market prices, with some crops likely unsalvageable. Officials have yet to provide a full assessment of agricultural losses.

The Phetchabun Meteorological Station had earlier warned that the province was among several areas at risk of heavy rain and summer storms. Residents and tourists were advised to monitor forecasts closely due to highly variable weather conditions during this period.

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Thongchai Sano Sritrakul, head of the provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, said heavy rainfall was recorded in Khao Kho, Lom Kao, and parts of Nam Nao National Park. He confirmed that several wildfire zones, previously inaccessible to firefighting teams, were effectively extinguished by the storm. The rainfall is expected to increase humidity levels and reduce the likelihood of further fires in the short term.

The Daily News reported that authorities continue to monitor conditions as unstable weather persists across the region. Residents are urged to remain alert for further storms while officials assess damage to agriculture and infrastructure.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 19 Apr 2026