Summer Storm Pounds Upper Thailand

BANGKOK, May 9 (TNA) – The Meteorological Department issued a summer storm warning in the upper part of Thailand today and tomorrow, affecting the North, the Northeast, the East and the central region.

Outbreaks of summer storms are likely over the areas, accompanying with thunderstorms, gusty winds and hail in some places, as well as some isolated lightning strikes.

People should beware of the severe condition by keeping off outdoor places, big trees, unsecured buildings and billboards and taking off metal decorations and mobiles. Farmers should prevent for crop damage.   

In Nakhon Nayok, severe storm on Monday triggered flood in the Muang Nakhon Nayok municipality areas, toppling billboards and structures.  A transformer was struck by lightning, leading to a fire at a roadside coffee stall.  

Shops along Nakhon Nayok- Sarika Waterfall Road, linking to waterfalls and Khun Dam Prakan Chon dam were damaged by the storm.

In the northern province of Chiang Rai, strong wind and heavy rain in Mae Fah Luang district knocked over trees, obstructing traffic. It took local officials about one hour to clear the road to reopen to traffic.

The storm caused a blackout in wide areas. A motorcycle rider was injured after being hit by a part of a corrugated roof blown off during a stormy rain.

In Payao, the storm battered Dok Kham Tai district and downed power poles. Authorities spent hours to restore the power in Muang and Dok Kham Tai districts. (TNA)