SRI RACHA, Thailand – Heavy rain and strong winds lasting for more than an hour caused a large tree to snap and fall onto a high-voltage power pole and transformer behind Worakit Plaza Market in Moo 3, Surasak subdistrict, Sri Racha district, on August 23.
The incident occurred at around 3:30 p.m., causing power outages across a wide area. The Provincial Electricity Authority’s Si Racha office sent crews to the scene to inspect the damage and begin repairs, while local officials monitored the situation and assisted residents. Officials found the large tree had fallen across the high-voltage lines and damaged the electrical system. Electricity to the affected area was temporarily cut for safety while crews worked to remove branches and clear the tree from the power lines.
Anchalee Iam-opas, chairman of Hua Khan Thot Community, said the strong winds brought the tree down across the power lines, causing the outage. She immediately contacted the electricity authority, with officials arriving at the scene within about 10 minutes.
She also urged owners of large trees near roads and power lines to have them regularly trimmed to prevent similar incidents and reduce risks to people travelling through the area. Officials estimated that repairs would take one to two hours, provided there were no complications, with power expected to be gradually restored once the area is made safe. Residents were warned to remain cautious while rain and strong winds continue and to stay away from damaged power poles and electrical equipment to avoid potentially serious accidents.
