The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), led by Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, has introduced a comprehensive heat response plan for 2026 by opening 304 “BKK Cooling Centers” across the city. These facilities provide safe, air-conditioned spaces where residents can rest, cool down, and access drinking water, helping to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke. The initiative makes use of existing public buildings, ensuring no additional energy consumption beyond current operations.
The cooling centers are strategically located in schools, public health centers, district offices, and recreational facilities, with services fully available from April 1, 2026. In addition, the city has set up 178 “Cooling Spots” in parks and green spaces, along with more than 2,800 free drinking water points. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, people with chronic illnesses, and outdoor workers. The BMA aims to ensure that residents can access a cooling facility within an 800-meter radius of their homes.
According to the Thailand Meteorological Department, Thailand officially entered the summer season on February 22, 2026, with peak heat expected between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. The BMA has also implemented a four-level Heat Index warning system—green, yellow, orange, and red—to inform the public of health risks and encourage appropriate precautions. Real-time updates are available through digital platforms, reinforcing Bangkok’s proactive approach to managing urban heat and protecting public health.
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