Summer storm in Hua Hin causes serious durian crop damages
A sudden summer storm wreaked havoc in Hua Hin where over 1 tonne of ripe durians toppled over at a local orchard causing damages estimated at 300,000 baht.
The storm lashed through Huay Sat Yai Subdistrict on Monday, May 6, tearing roofs off homes and destroying property. Among the affected was Khajonphat Ngamkhamkan’s 3-acre durian orchard, where the approaching harvest was violently disrupted by the gale-force winds.
In the small community, the storm’s aftermath was a scene of devastation. Locals found themselves reeling from the unexpected natural event, which has had a significant impact on the region’s agriculture and infrastructure. Durian trees, ready for harvest with fruits branded as wild durians of Pa La-u, lay strewn across the ground. This loss is particularly poignant for farmers like Khajonphat, who had invested time and resources in cultivating the crop for sale.
District Chief Pholkrit Phuangwalaisin reported that the storm damaged several other properties as well. Pradit Tumthong’s home at Village 5, Chaloem Phra Kiat, suffered a completely blown-off roof. Meanwhile, at Village 9, Ban Pong Samrong, Kanong Chanthasai’s carport and Ngamnit Phumswasdi’s cattle enclosure were severely damaged. The extent of the destruction prompted a swift response from local authorities.
Pholkrit has since coordinated with subdistrict administrative organisations, village headmen, and community leaders to provide immediate assistance to those affected. They are assessing the damage to secure the necessary funds for aid. Moreover, he has instructed officials to monitor weather conditions closely to stay ahead of any further storms that may threaten the district, reported KhaoSod.
As Hua Hin begins its recovery process, the focus will be on rebuilding and providing relief to those who have suffered losses.
In related news, the city of Hat Yai in Songkhla was hit by a severe summer storm on Sunday, May 5, resulting in significant damage to public infrastructure. Billboards and electricity poles were toppled by the powerful gale.
