Tha Chana, Chaiya, Tha Chang, Kanchanadit, Don Sak, Muang and Koh Phangan hit by severe flooding
PUBLISHED: 12 Jan 2025 at 17:28
SURAT THANI: Coastal communities in Surat Thani province faced severe disruption on Sunday as strong waves and rising sea levels led to widespread flooding across seven districts.
The affected areas include Tha Chana, Chaiya, Tha Chang, Kanchanadit, Don Sak, Muang, and the renowned tourist destination of Koh Phangan.
Heavy winds and waves reaching heights of three to four meters struck Moo 1 village in Don Sak district early in the morning, flooding homes and prompting the evacuation of 200 families with assistance from emergency services.
In Chaiya district’s tambon Poom Riang, four beachfront bungalows at a local resort collapsed after towering waves destroyed a 30-meter-long concrete sea embankment.
Boonrub Thongthuang, the resort manager, expressed his alarm, stating, “I have never witnessed such powerful waves in my nearly 50 years. Since 7:30 am, the waves kept hitting harder until the embankment broke.”
Rising sea levels also caused the Tapee River to overflow, flooding roads and residential areas. Authorities have advised local residents to secure their belongings and prepare for further flooding.
In the Tha Chang district, Moo 3 village experienced significant flooding around 8 am, although water levels receded later in the day, according to district chief Sukrit Meeprink.
Seatran Ferry Co announced the cancellation of specific trips on the Don Sak-Koh Samui-Koh Phangan routes due to rough weather conditions, urging passengers to account for potential delays.
Meanwhile, Lomprayah High Speed Ferries has suspended all ferry services to and from Koh Tao until further notice.
Surat Thani governor Theerut Supawibulpol confirmed that authorities are actively assessing the damage while preparing for possible evacuations if conditions worsen.
Fishing vessels and smaller boats have been ordered to stay in port, and ferry operators must monitor weather updates and comply with official warnings. “Decisive action will be taken against those who violate regulations,” stated Mr. Theerut.
