Storm Wipha wreaks havoc in Phuket, 22 provinces brace for its impacts

One Chinese tourist was crushed to death and another seriously injured by a falling tree in Phuket on Sunday, as strong winds and heavy rain wrought havoc on the resort island as a result of Tropical Storm Wipha, which is expected to make landfall in northern Vietnam tomorrow.

The storm has moved into southern China, after battering Hong Kong. It is expected to move back offshore, into the Gulf of Tonkin and then move into northern Vietnam.

Numerous cars were damaged and a temporary blackout was reported in several areas of the island.

One long-tailed boat, carrying five passengers, was found drifting in stormy seas, near Mai Thon Island near Phuket, after its engine failed, prompting the provincial marine office to send a vessel. The Royal Thai Navy’s Third Fleet sent a patrol boat to their rescue. All the five passengers and the boatman were safely brought ashore.

The marine office previously advised all vessels against venturing out to sea, from Saturday through tomorrow, due to strong winds and rough seas.

Phuket police reported that the Chinese victim and his wife were resting on the beach, on Hey islet, when strong winds felled a large tree, which crashed down onto them, causing them serious injuries. The husband was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The Phuket provincial public disaster prevention and mitigation office has been placed on full alert to cope with the impacts of the storm, which is expected to last until this Thursday.

In Chiang Mai provinces, Governor Nirat Pongsitthithavorn said yesterday that irrigation officials are standing by to release water from the reservoirs behind Mae Ngad and Mae Kwang dams, to increase space for more water from mountain runoffs.

54 temporary shelters are being prepared to house more than 5,000 people, who may need to be evacuated from flooded homes. The shelters also have room for about 10,500 cars, according to the governor.

In Chiang Rai province, Governor Charin Thongsuk said yesterday that officials have been ordered to remove all obstacles that could block the flow of the Kok, Ping and Mae Sai rivers, which are susceptible to overflowing.

Safe zones have also been designated in every village, where people can safely take shelter or place their valuable property and animals.

Meanwhile the Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has advised people in 57 provinces across the country, especially those living close to waterways and mountain bases, to brace for flash floods, river overflows and mud slides.