🇹🇭 Thailand — Sunday, April 12, 2026
Highlights through the eyes of a long-term local resident.
Published — Apr 12, 4:13 PM (local) · Apr 12, 9:13 AM (UTC)
Editor · An entrepreneur based in Bangkok for 6 years
Bangkok
cloudy
Rain 0%
UV 9
Extreme heat warnings remain in effect across the country, with temperatures hitting 41°C in several provinces.
Songkran begins with heavy traffic and heat
As of April 11, major routes like the Asia Highway heading north face significant congestion, with speeds dropping to near-standstill in Ayutthaya. Authorities have halted construction on Rama II Road to provide more lane space for holiday travelers. Meanwhile, water splashing festivities at CentralWorld and other Bangkok landmarks officially launched April 11, drawing large crowds despite the scorching 41°C weather.
Editor's note
It is brutally hot out there—stay hydrated and maybe save the water fights for the evening if you're sensitive to the sun. If you’re hitting the road, check your vehicle’s fluids before leaving, as the heat is relentless on older engines.
Government addresses rising energy costs
The Cabinet has approved a relief package for transport operators to help offset record fuel prices, with registration for aid starting April 16. Officials signaled that energy prices will likely remain elevated for the next one to two years due to Middle East conflicts. A proposed restriction on fuel sales from 22:00 to 05:00 at service stations is currently under evaluation for the period starting April 20.
Editor's note
This is weighing heavily on everyone right now. If you're a business owner or rely on fuel for logistics, keep a close watch on the registry dates. It feels like we're all being forced to adapt to a much more expensive reality very quickly.
Crackdown on drunk driving during holidays
Police launched nationwide checkpoints on April 10, reporting 2,617 arrests for drunk driving on the first day of operations. Authorities emphasized a strict 'no blow, no go' policy, clarifying that refusing to take a breathalyzer test will result in automatic charges of driving under the influence. Checkpoints are standardized across all provinces, and police have established 'rest zones' to allow drivers to sober up if they fall under the 50mg/100ml limit but still show signs of impairment.
Editor's note
Good. Too many people lose their lives on these roads during the holidays. Just grab a taxi or use the apps—it’s not worth the risk, and the police are clearly not messing around this year.
Investigation into southern shooting continues
Minister P. Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong traveled to Narathiwat on April 11 to oversee the investigation into the March 20 assassination attempt on MP Kamonsak Leewamoh. Local police have identified key leads connecting the incident to masterminds behind the attack. Authorities are currently conducting additional interrogations to consolidate evidence.
Editor's note
This is a volatile situation. If you’re traveling in the deep south, keep your ear to the ground and follow local guidance from security officials.
Buriram United secures 11th Thai League title
Buriram United was crowned the 2025-26 Thai League champion on April 11 after True Bangkok United lost 1-0 to Nakhon Ratchasima FC. This win marks Buriram's 11th league title and their 5th consecutive championship victory. The league concludes with five matches remaining for the leaders.
Editor's note
Dominant as ever. It’s hard to bet against them at this point.
Reference Media: มติชนออนไลน์, ข่าวสด