Pattaya is bracing for arrival of Tropical Storm Gaemi, which hit Vietnam yesterday and is likely to affect the Eastern Seaboard today.
The Thai Meteorological Department said Oct. 4 that the storm had a maximum wind speed of 80 km. per hour, and was moving west at 25 kph when it arrived on Vietnamese shores that evening.
The department said the storm was expected to arrive in Thailand today, when it will cause heavy rains and strong winds in many provinces in the east, lower northeast and central parts of the country. Provinces in the west and south were likely to be affected Monday and Tuesday.
The rain began falling in Pattaya around 11 p.m. Oct. 5, with four hours of downpour and, of course, flooding. Areas from Beach Road to Soi Buakaow, and from South Pattaya to Sukhumvit Road were affected.
Chonburi Gov. Khomsan Ekachai said Oct. 6 that preparations are being made to handle the flooding, with residents in at-risk areas advised to relocate valuables and pets. Flash flood and landslide warnings have also been issued.
Rayong Gov. Wichit Chatpaisit said he informed sub-district mayors, police and other government officials to inform residents of the ongoing situation. Each area has made preparations to help residents mitigate exposure to the storm and fishing boats have been brought in.
Sattahip Mayor Phawat Lertmukda said authorities are warning coastal fishermen to dock at local piers shielded from wind and waves.
Chonburi Marine Department Director Pisut Amornyuth said boat operators are being warned to take extreme caution and prepare equipment including lifeboats and other emergency aids.
Passenger boats crossing between Koh Loi in Sriracha and Koh Srichang, ferries are being warned to navigate carefully and use lights during low visibility. In cases where waves make it impossible for operators to navigate, they are advised to anchor in a sheltered area.
Chetsada Ditman, head of the Prasae Maintenance project, said the Prasae Reservoir can store 248 million cu meters of water and is at no risk of overflowing.
People can monitor the situation at WaterForThai.com (Thai language), and report flooding and request help form the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department at 038-272-814-5 or dial 1784.
Visit http://www.accuweather.com/en/th/national/satellite for current satellite images and/or http://www.tmd.go.th/en/province.php?id=61 for local information.
