Possible flash flood warned in lower southern Thailand

Southern provinces are on alert for flash flood after torrential rain triggered minor flood, swollen rivers and powerful waves hitting shores have prompted seafront shops to close, Thai News Agency (TNA) reports.

Phatthulung governor Wanchai Kongkasem ordered all districts to remain on alert for possible flash floods after the meteorological department warns of heavy to very heavy rain from Dec 2-4 in the lower South of the country, covered by the northeast monsoon.

The active low pressure is moving over lower southern Thailand and Malaysia.

Overnight rain caused flooding in parts of the provincial seat of Phatthalung and road shoulder of the Phetkasem highway. Water pumps were used to drain water from flooded areas.

In Songkhla, heavy rain continued on the second consecutive day, increasing the water level in the main canal of Utapao but it has not yet reached the alarming level.

Flooding in the provincial seat has receded and returned to normal.

In the southernmost province of Narathiwat, incessant rain triggered flood in the Provincial seat of Narathiwat.

The water level of the major river- Saiburi, Sungai Kolok, Bangnara has risen.

Local residents, living along the rivers were warned to remain vigilant. Shops along Narathad beach have been forced to close temporarily due to high strong waves.