New national record: Extreme heat in Thailand

Thailand has recorded temperatures over 45°C for the first time ever.

History was made on the 14th April in Thailand, as temperatures sky-rocketed to 45.4°C in Tak, nearly a whole degree higher than the previous national record set in 2016 in Mae Hong Son Province in the far north.

Many countries in south-east Asia are being gripped by a severe heatwave. April is known to be the hottest month of the year, but these temperature highs are unprecedented.

In addition to the oppressive heat, smog is also filling the air of northern Thailand, causing thousands of people to develop respiratory problems and throat illnesses.

This included popular tourist destinations such as Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in the north-west of the country. Thai authorities issued several health warnings.