Warning at Jomtien Beach: Erosion creates dangerous slope

Jomtien Municipality placed warning signs around Jomtien Beach, alerting tourists to a hazardous slope formed by erosion. The signs advise visitors to steer clear of the affected area for their safety.

A significant portion of the beach, stretching approximately 1 kilometre, has experienced severe erosion due to monsoon waves and strong winds. This natural process has resulted in a steep slope, with heights ranging from 1.5 to 2 metres.

The uneven sand and steep incline created by the erosion present a safety risk for locals and tourists. Authorities have emphasised the importance of avoiding this area, particularly at night when visibility is poor.

The Na Jomtien Municipality urges all beachgoers to heed the warnings and stay away from the eroded section to prevent accidents and injuries, reported Pattaya News.

ORIGINAL STORY: Storm havoc: Jomtien Beach eroded and unsafe

Jomtien Beach was battered by fierce winds and waves yesterday, causing devastating erosion across a 1,000-metre stretch opposite the Pu Pen Restaurant.

Ekkarach Kantharo, Director of the Pattaya Regional Marine Department Office, confirmed the damage was a result of monsoon conditions that have unleashed storms and towering waves on the Gulf of Thailand. The reinforced sand on Jomtien Beach, extending 2.8 kilometres, was no match for the powerful waves.

A 1,000-metre section had its sand swept into the sea, while a 400-metre portion was gouged into a steep 1.5-metre slope. This precarious incline presents a serious hazard to the public and tourists, particularly after dark. Consequently, the area has been temporarily cordoned off.

To tackle the danger, urgent safety measures are in progress. The Pattaya Marine Department and Na Jomtien Municipality are deploying heavy machinery to level the treacherous slopes. Efforts are underway to reclaim the sand from the sea and redistribute it, a process expected to take two to three days. Warning signs are being erected to alert the public and visitors about the erosion, advising them to stay clear of the area for now.

Rapeephan Rattanaliem, Mayor of Na Jomtien sub-district, reassured that the municipality is swiftly addressing the disruptions caused by the erosion. Over the past two days, public health officials have been clearing sand from roads, and water trucks have been dispatched to wash the streets.

In collaboration with the Pattaya Marine Department, plans are in place to plant trees along the beach to prevent future sand encroachments. Heavy machinery will persist in levelling the sand to form a safer gradient. Public announcements will be made to inform residents and tourists to avoid the area temporarily, even for photography and other activities, reported Pattaya Mail.