Severe hailstorm in Ratchaburi damages homes and crops
A severe summer storm in Ratchaburi, accompanied by a hailstorm, has caused extensive damage to homes and agriculture, affecting around 200 households and 50 rai of crops. The storm struck the Kaem On subdistrict in Chom Bueng district on Sunday, March 16, toppling trees and causing major power outages.
Local officials, including Chom Bueng’s district officer, Taweesin Songcharoen, and Kaem On subdistrict’s vice-chief, Panu Lapatweesomboon, conducted surveys of the affected areas. Reports indicate that the storm tore off the roofs of several homes and felled large trees, which damaged power lines, leading to widespread electricity disruptions.
Additionally, hail accompanied the rain and strong winds, exacerbating the damage, while fallen trees damaged motorcycles and injured some residents.
Ratchatikarn Ngiewthong, a 44 year old resident of Kaem On subdistrict, described the terrifying scene as the storm lifted roof tiles from his home. With the initial signs of the storm, Ratchatikarn noticed the tiles shifting and, during the subsequent gusts, they were entirely blown away.
As the storm persisted for about an hour, he sought shelter at the front of his house, and once it subsided, he discovered half of his roof missing. Many neighbours experienced similar destruction, with some homes suffering severe damage.
Another local, 31 year old Namlap Toiam, recounted how the weather turned suddenly after a hot spell, with dark clouds, lightning, and powerful winds accompanying the hail. The wind was so strong that it carried away roof tiles and downed trees, which in turn fell on power lines.
Summer storm
Namlap attempted to record the event despite feeling frightened by the storm’s intensity. Fortunately, the fallen trees did not completely collapse onto her home, sparing it from further damage. Power was only restored after midnight as electric company personnel worked to fix the broken lines.
Thipawan Nangam, a local som tam vendor, shared her experience of the storm while she was preparing food for customers.
The fierce winds uprooted her shop’s tent and cooking equipment, scattering everything in their path and causing significant losses to her business. She managed to seek safety inside her home, but her supplies were ruined, reported KhaoSod.
Taweesin stated that an initial survey has revealed damage to over 200 homes across nine villages and significant losses in agricultural lands covering over 50 rai, with most crops being non-perennial plants.
The local administrative organisation is currently conducting a more detailed assessment of the damage and is prioritising urgent assistance to those affected, as additional rainfall is anticipated.
Latest Thailand News
