Sunday morning and we run again with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th September – 13th September 2020.

Talking about running, the lsd (long slow distance) run is in the can this morning. 23.6km in 2 hours and 12 minutes or a 5'36 pace. Nice running this morning, starting at 5am in the dark.

Right now it's almost 11.15am and we have a cloudy sky with a few blue patches. Current temperature is 31C. I don't really expect any rain today. On the other hand, most likely it remains cloudy.

Covid is still causing havoc on the island and in Thailand in general. Firstly, there are 3 confirmed covid cases. After 100 days going without covid, it seems to be back. One dj in Bangkok was caught in prison with symptoms. Secondly, a professional Uzbek national team football player for the Buriram team has tested positive. Thirdly, a Korean man returning from Bangkok tested positive in Seoul. Currently they're trying to find out the source of the infections.

Secondly, many of the foreigners residing in Thailand are starting to panic. They will have to leave the Kingdom on 27th September if they don't have the correct visa. This date the amnesty expires.Many friends who are not married, but have Thai partners, may face an unwanted exit. It's possible to change certain visas, but it's all expensive and not necessarily easy to sort out.

had to throw in the towel and he's returning to Europe. leaving his Thai wife here. He will try to find work back in his home country until he can return, providing the borders are open.

It's tough out here, still every day families return to the mainland. This morning, during my long run, I saw two pick up trucks, packed to the rafters with all the respective families belongings. The motorbike, fridge, tv set and plenty of other bits and pieces from their household was crammed in the back. 

Sadly, there's no end in sight when this will finish. The Thai borders will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

On the other hand, let's go back to the weather. Last week's maximum temperature reached 35C. It was hot a few times! However, Thursday afternoon and Saturday evening saw some hard, tropical showers. The minimum temperature didn't drop below 24C at night. A fairly steady and enjoyable September week.

Another Family Market bites the dust. This outlet, in Choengmon has closed it's doors earlier this week. It's near the 'Melia' resort, the former Imperial Boathouse. Many 7-11 and Family outlets close overnight and don't have their big outdoor lights on. All because they try to reduce costs. Many resorts staff have been cut down to around 50%. Including salary cuts up to 50%, including the general managers. Or in some cases, actually letting go of the general managers. Chaweng is like a ghost town. Half of Chaweng's shops, bars, restaurants seem to have closed and are up for rent or sale. There's talk of closing down Central Festival shopping mall for 3 months. Big chain restaurant 'Wine connection' has closed it's doors a few months ago already.

The forecast for next week looks interesting. Shower alert all week long. From mid week on, expect stronger wind. Friday should see the 'worst'. Possibly hard rain and a fairly strong wind.

Expect the usual suspect locations to have flash floods later this week again.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. A donation has been received and thanks for that! You know who your are.