Thailand's Songkran festival, the country's traditional New Year, occurs with water gun battles and bucket dumps amid record-high temperatures.

Thailand's Songkran festival, the country's traditional New Year, is marked by water gun battles and bucket dumps, despite concerns over record-high temperatures. The three-day shindig, extending informally for a week, attracts thousands of people and generates significant tourism revenue. Past governments have been cautious about requesting a toning down of the festivities, even in extreme weather conditions.