Extreme weather conditions continue to wreak havoc phuket. Fierce winds downed numerous trees, resulting in significant blockages yesterday. These unexpected weather conditions have caused travel disruptions across the island and two cleanup crews have been dispatched to counter the impact.
A sizeable tree that fell on Soi Vachira, near Vachira phuket Hospital in Phuket Town, was one of the main obstructions reported. It took city workers several hours to safely clear the heavy tree, allowing traffic to return to normal in the area. Other areas were similarly affected with downed trees damaging homes and blocking roads, a real handicap for local communities as recorded by the Phuket Information Center.
Since yesterday, heavy rain and strong wind waves have been a cause for concern, with a weather warning issued by the Thailand Meteorological Department (DTM). This warning was reiterated today by Wirote, an official at TMD’s Southern Meteorological Center, who underscores the urgency of the prevailing situation, The Phuket News reported. Wirot wrote…
“During July 19 and 20, the fairly strong southwest monsoon prevails over the Andaman Sea and south thailandthe west coast. For this reason, abundant rain and heavy to very heavy rain will occur in some areas.”
That being the case, precautions should be taken particularly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun provinces.
The forecast predicts that waves in the Andaman Sea could reach heights of between 2 and 3 meters and even exceed 3 meters in squall areas. All vessels are strongly advised to avoid these and similar areas, as small vessels are at particular risk, a push put forward by Wirote.
In light of this, Maritime Department officials have started vigils at crucial piers across Phuket to make sure certain maritime safety measures are strictly adhered to. TMD’s Southern Weather Center anticipates more isolated thunderstorms to affect around 80% of the island today, accompanied by gusty winds that could reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour.
To ensure rapid drainage in Phuket Town, bombs were placed at three main locations. The flow of the Bang Yai channel, a key water flow route in Phuket Town, remains under observation.
Safety tips for tourists is not being neglected. Phuket’s main Tourist Assistance Center recommends that beachgoers follow the instructions posted by red flags at various points. They indicate areas where lifeguards consider the water unsuitable for swimming, and ignoring these warnings could pose serious risks to personal safety.
