Chiang Mai:Dense fog has enveloped the city, prompting residents to don warm clothing and marking a notable change in the weather.
According to Thai News Agency, the fog was particularly thick on Chotana Road, leading into Chiang Mai, where visibility was reduced to just 100 meters. This prompted motorcyclists and car drivers to use their headlights. This occurrence marks the first day of fog in the city, with many locals already wearing warmer attire.
The atmospheric changes have also been observed along the Ping River, near the Ban Tho Pa Tan Bridge, where mist covered the water surface for hundreds of meters. Villagers took to the river in boats to catch fish using longlines, hoping to supplement their meals and possibly sell any surplus for additional income.
The cooler temperatures have contributed to increased sales of sticky rice in bamboo tubes, known locally as khao lam, in Chiang Mai's city center. A vendor noted that this is the first foggy day of the season, with the morning air becoming refreshingly cool. The vendor, part of a family business known in the area for over 40 years, reported selling out of their 100-120 bamboo tubes each day. Each tube sells for 35-40 baht, offering fillings such as peanuts, sesame seeds, coconut milk, custard, and black beans. The shop caters to both Thai and international customers, with product demand typically exceeding supply by 10 am.
Tourists have also been drawn to the cold weather at the summit of Doi Inthanon, located in Chom Thong District, where temperatures have dropped to 11 degrees Celsius. The Kew Mae Pan viewpoint attracted many visitors eager to capture photos of the scenic views, with temperatures there recorded at 13 degrees Celsius. Yesterday, the area welcomed 2,624 tourists, comprising 2,050 Thai visitors and 574 foreigners, accompanied by 961 vehicles.