TRAT, Thailand – Powerful waves continue to batter Ao Tan Khu Beach in Trat province, forcing several beachfront businesses to temporarily close and damaging parts of shop roofs, while local authorities have placed red flags along the shoreline and warned residents and tourists not to enter the sea.
A survey of Ao Tan Khu Beach in Bang Pit subdistrict, Laem Ngop district, on Aug. 20 found strong winds and waves repeatedly crashing onto the shoreline. The rough conditions have affected beachfront operators, with some shops unable to open for more than a week because the weather has made it difficult to accommodate customers by the sea.
Visitors arriving at the beach can still walk along the shoreline, but are being warned against swimming because of the strong waves and currents.
The Bang Pit Subdistrict Administrative Organization has placed five red flags along nearly 200 meters of beach to clearly warn the public and tourists of the dangerous sea conditions and prohibit swimming.
A local beach restaurant owner, 58-year-old Orn-anong Jitakanon, said strong waves during the monsoon season are normally expected, but conditions this year have been noticeably more severe.
She said strong winds have continued for days, preventing her restaurant from operating for more than a week because tourists cannot safely sit and dine along the beachfront.
The rough weather has also caused property damage. Some sections of shop roofs have been blown off or damaged by strong winds, prompting operators to regularly inspect their properties and keep a close watch on their belongings.
Orn-anong said operators are continuing to monitor warnings from the Thai Meteorological Department, which has issued warnings about strong waves through Aug. 21. They are waiting to see whether additional warnings will be issued. Ao Tan Khu Beach is currently in Thailand’s low season, when visitor numbers are generally lower. Tourism is expected to pick up toward the end of the year, beginning around October and continuing into early the following year.
With strong waves continuing, local authorities are urging visitors to follow the red-flag warnings and avoid swimming. People entering the water could be swept away from the shore by powerful waves and currents, potentially putting their lives at risk. Residents and tourists are also advised to monitor weather updates and official warnings closely. If rough conditions persist, visitors should avoid marine activities and stay away from restricted areas and warning flags to protect themselves and their property.
