Phattalung – Thailand’s Meteorological Department has issued a warning that tropical storm Kai Tak, currently forming over the South China Sea and set to move southwest at about 20 kilometers per hour, will impact southern Thailand as it moves towards Malaysia between December 22 and 24. Heavy rains are expected in Phattalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Trang and Satun.
The storm is expected to kick up waves to 2 to 4 meters and create dangerous conditions for boats as well as onshore coastal areas. Flash flooding and forest runoff is possible.
The department urges citizens in these areas or people planning to visit to follow updates closely at www.tmd.go.th or call the 24 hour hotline 1182 for information.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation meanwhile notes that flooding is persisting in the three southern provinces of Phattalung, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani with up to 10 districts still dealing with the inundation. The department is working with other agencies to provide continuous assistance and is using heavy machinery to expedite the resolution of the situation.
Authorities have made preparations to handle the effects of Kai Tak with rapid response units and emergency care.
