Heavy rain, flash flood warning issued for Phuket

PHUKET: A weather warning for heavy rains, strong winds and possible flash floods was issued by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) this morning.

A prevailing strong easterly wind is expected to bring heavy rains to southern Thailand and the Andaman coast.

The warning is in effect for Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.

Wind-driven waves are expected to reach 2-3 meters high in the Andaman, leading to the issuance of a small boat advisory.

“People should proceed with caution. Similarly, all ships should proceed with caution and small boat should keep ashore,” Suntad Panbanpeaw, director of the Meteorological Department’s Phuket office, told the Phuket Gazette this afternoon.

“The heavy rains will last several days.”

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Phuket office (DDPM) and Governor’s Office have ordered officers to check the power poles in Phuket, following several being knocked over by strong winds in Pattaya.

“The roads will be slippery, so people should drive with care and make sure they are wearing their helmets,” said Santhawat Riwleung, chief of the DDPM Phuket office.

— Kongleaphy Keam