Durian set to dump deluge on Phuket

PHUKET: The Southern Meteorological Center (West Coast) today warned that Tropical Depression Durian is likely to cause heavy rain in Phang Nga and Ranong, with lesser rain in Phuket and other nearby provinces. The center has urged people in “at-risk” areas – those areas prone to flooding and landslides – to prepare for the deluge.

The statement, released by the center at 4 pm, said that the storm reached Thailand’s east coast in Chumphon Province earlier today and is predicted to move across the country toward Phuket.

The statement also warned that strong winds would make conditions in the Andaman Sea treacherous with two- to four-meter waves. The center advised that small boats should not set out to sea for the next couple of days.