No typhoon, but heavy rain and big waves lead to Phuket boat warning

PHUKET: Heavy rain and wave heights that could reach four meters have led Phuket authorities to issue a small boat warning in effect through Thursday.

“We are monitoring the waves, which are expected to be about 2-4 meters high,” said Santhad Panbanpeaw, director of the Thai Meteorological Department’s Phuket Office.

“Small boat operators must be cautious and check the weather carefully before taking to sea.”

Typhoon Neoguri, currently over the Pacific Ocean, will reach Japan on Wednesday, but will not affect Thailand, said Mr Santhad.

Every local administration has been warned of flash floods that may result from the anticipated heavy rains, but no landslide warnings have been issued yet for the island, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) Phuket Chief San Jantharawong told the Phuket Gazette this morning.

“People must be prepared to respond to emergencies,” Mr San said.

Phuket weather is expected to improve slightly on Friday, noted Mr Santhad.

— Chutharat Plerin