Major tropical storm to revisit Ban Laem Taloompook after 57 years

14 Sept 01:48 Key points summarised by AI

Tropical storm Pa Buk is forecast to make landfall in Ban Laem Taloompook, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 57 years after the devastating storm Harriot struck the same village.
Expected tomorrow night, Pa Buk will bring winds of 90 kph, potentially peaking at 120 kph, and generate waves 3-5 meters high with a 3-meter sea level rise.
The storm's path will take it through Surat Thani before heading to the Andaman Sea in Ranong province, causing heavy to very heavy rain from tomorrow until Sunday.
Affected provinces include Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Prachuab Khiri Khan, and Chumporn, prompting widespread preparations.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.