SURAT THANI, Thailand – Coastal areas in Surat Thani province are facing severe weather conditions, with strong waves causing damage and disruptions. In response, the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM) and local authorities have prepared evacuation plans for residents in high-risk zones should conditions worsen.
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for strong winds and high waves in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea from January 12 to 13. A high-pressure system from China, combined with a strong northeast monsoon, is generating wave heights of 2 to 4 meters in the Gulf of Thailand, with waves exceeding 4 meters in thunderstorm-affected areas.
Since last night (January 11), several locations in Surat Thani have been heavily impacted, including Tha Chana subdistrict, Phum Riang subdistrict, parts of Kanchanadit and Don Sak districts, and Koh Phangan district. Authorities are currently assessing the damage in these areas.
The provincial governor has since instructed the DDPM to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with the Marine Department to ensure marine safety. Small fishing boats and passenger ferries are prohibited from leaving shore, with strict enforcement measures in place. Ferry operators are required to evaluate wave and wind conditions and follow official weather warnings before resuming services.
As a precaution, Lomprayah High-Speed Ferry Company has suspended tourist ferry services to Ang Thong National Marine Park, Koh Tao, and Koh Nang Yuan until January 13. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to avoid coastal areas, stay alert, and follow official updates as the situation develops. (NNT)
