11 provinces warned of floods, high waves

Two provinces in the lower Central and nine in the South have been warned of possible flash floods, landslides and strong wind waves, according to Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department director-general Chayapol Thitisak.

Mr Chayapol said the department’s warning is based on the Thai Meteorological Department’s weather forecast that during June 18-20 the southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will become stronger.

Waves in the Andaman Sea are expected to be 2-4 metres high and in the Gulf of Thailand 2-3 metres high. People are advised to take precautions against possible flash floods, landslides and strong wind waves in the face of accumulated rainwater.

Areas prone to flash floods and landslides are Muang, Tha Sae, Sawi, Lang Suan and Phato districts of Chumphon province; Tha Chana, Tha Chang, Wiphawadi, Khirirath Nikhom and Phanom districts of Surat Thani; Muang, Kraburi, La-un and Kapoe districts of Ranong; and, Khura Buri, Takua Pa, Kapong, Tai Muang and Takua Thung districts of Phangnga.

The 11 provinces where people are warned against strong wind and high waves are Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan in the lower Central; and, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ranong, Phangnga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun in the South.

Mr Chayapol said disaster prevention and mitigation offices in these provinces have been instructed to be ready to cope with any situation.  Rain volumes and water levels must be closely monitored. Rapid mobile teams and machines for relief operations must be ready for action.

All kinds of vessels including fishing boats, ferries and tour boats are advised to proceed with caution.