Weather bureau confirms Pa Buk to hit Nakhon Si Thammarat tonight

13 Sept 12:18 Key points summarised by AI

Tropical storm Pa Buk, packing 75 kph winds, is confirmed to make landfall in Nakhon Si Thammarat tonight, threatening widespread heavy rain and flash floods.
The storm's path has slightly shifted south, with an updated projection for landfall between Ranod (Songkhla) and Sichon (Nakhon Si Thammarat) around noon today.
Over 2,600 staff from offshore oil rigs have been evacuated to the mainland as a safety precaution.
The Royal Thai Navy has deployed its aircraft carrier Chakri Narubaet and two accompanying ships, carrying helicopters and specialized rescue teams, to the expected landfall area for relief operations.

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.