Severe storm sinks seven fishing boats in Koh Libong

A severe storm hit Koh Libong, resulting in seven local fishing boats sinking and significant damage to resorts and homes. The residents are currently self-reliant due to impassable sea conditions, with waves reaching 2 to 3 metres high.

Yesterday, September 18, reports emerged of intense rainfall and strong winds striking Koh Libong, Moo 5, Ban Lang Khao, Koh Libong subdistrict, Kantang district, Trang province. Seven local fishing boats were submerged due to the adverse weather in the Andaman Sea. Asan Khonkayan, the village headman of Moo 5, Koh Libong, and locals worked tirelessly to salvage the sunken boats from the sea.

Alongside the storm’s impact on the fishing boats, resorts and homes also suffered significant damage. The exact extent of the damage is still undetermined as of now. Residents are left to fend for themselves because boat travel is not feasible due to the high waves, which are about 2 to 3 metres.

Asan explained that the preliminary damage assessment shows seven fishing boats have sunk, and several resorts and homes have their roofs damaged due to the strong winds. The situation has been reported to the provincial officials. However, assisting is challenging because the island’s current sea conditions make travel impossible, Asan.

“We have informed the province about the damage. The strong winds caused roofs to be blown off resorts and homes. The high waves make it impossible to travel by sea, so the villagers have to help themselves for now.”

During this monsoon season, local officials have advised residents and fishermen to avoid taking their boats out to sea, reported KhaoSod. They are urged to listen closely to announcements from the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) and official warnings.

This storm is considered the most severe in thirty years, with the rain arriving earlier than usual, Asan added.

“We have been urging the community and local fishermen to heed the warnings from TMD. This monsoon is the strongest we’ve seen in three decades, with rain coming earlier than in previous years.”