CHANTHABURI, Thailand – A severe storm battered Chanthaburi province, causing the roof of a popular chicken rice restaurant at Siri Karn Market in Mueang district to collapse. The incident happened around noon when the restaurant was full of customers. As rain began, staff and patrons moved tables inside, but a sudden strong gust of wind tore off the roof. No customers were injured, but the owner of a neighboring chicken rice shop was struck on the back by falling debris and was rushed to the hospital.
Local workers said heavy rain is common in the area and the roofs are usually sturdy. However, the powerful, sudden wind blew the roof off in one swift moment. The storm also damaged roofs on 15 nearby buildings. Military and police personnel arrived promptly to clear debris and ensure safety.
Phuket — The storm also caused tragedy on Koh Hey Island, where a large tree was uprooted by strong winds and crushed a 53-year-old Chinese female tourist. The woman was visiting with her husband as part of a tour group. At the time, the couple was sitting on beach chairs under the tree. The falling tree killed the woman instantly and injured her husband with minor wounds from falling branches. Phuket authorities have sent a letter of condolence to the Chinese embassy. Due to the storm, tourist piers, especially Ao Chalong pier, were quiet with fewer visitors, and small boats were prohibited from leaving the harbor. Red flags were raised on all beaches to warn visitors.
Chiang Rai — In Mae Sai district, heavy storms caused strong winds and rain in the evening. On the road between Ban San Thanon and Ban Nong Si Jaeng in Sri Muang Chum subdistrict, a large tree was blown down along with a homeowner’s wall, blocking the entire roadway. Local officials worked for over three hours to cut and remove the tree and push the wall debris off the road, reopening traffic afterward.
The authorities continue to monitor conditions as Tropical Storm Wipha moves across northern and eastern regions, warning residents to stay alert for further heavy rains and strong winds. (TNA)
