Phuket downpours prompt weather warning

PHUKET: Following heavy rains across Phuket this morning, the Thai Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory.

Issued at 11am by the Southern Meteorological Center at Phuket Airport, the advisory reads: “Rather strong southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea and the Southern Thailand West Coast. Abundant rain and heavy to very heavy rain in many areas over much of the windward side, with strong wind gusts.

“People in risk areas should beware of flash floods and river embankment overflows. The areas include provinces of Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Trang and Satun.”

Wind-driven waves will reach as high as four meters. All ships should proceed with caution and small boats are advised keep ashore.

The seven-day forecast issued today calls for “fairly widespread thundershowers and isolated heavy rain throughout the period, with southwesterly [monsoon] winds at 20-40kmh.”