Heavy rain forecast for 9 southern provinces

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Bangkok – The Meteorological Department has warned the south of the country that it can expect more heavy rain, with the Ministry of the Interior coordinating with nine southern provinces and Prachuap Khirikan to prepare for runoff and flash floods.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has put the provinces of Chumporn, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phattalung, Songkla, Ranong, Phangnga, Phuket, Krabi and Prachuap Khirikan on alert and is preparing them to handle the forecast rains. The provinces are to ready personnel and equipment so that they can respond when needed 24 hours a day. Areas susceptible to flooding and financial centers have been placed under close watch, and members of the public have been told to follow updates from authorities and prepare for heavy storms.

Citizens in areas at risk of flooding have been particularly encouraged to follow updates and to avoid unsafe locations such as under large trees, electricity poles, billboards and unsafe structures. They are encouraged to report any dangerous situations or request assistance by calling the Hotline 1784, which is open 24 hours a day.

The Meteorological Department has forecast that heavy rains will continue to lash the south and east of the country for the time being, likely setting off flash flooding and creating runoff. The north of the country however, can anticipate a temperature drop of 2-4 degrees Celsius and stronger winds.