People in 15 provinces along the coasts of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand should remain on high alert for possible high waves, inshore surges, heavy rain and flash floods during July 7-12, Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department director-general Chayapol Thitisak said on Saturday (July 7).

The 15 provinces are Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Rayong, Chon Buri, Chanthaburi, Trat, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Phatthalung, Ranong, Phangnga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.

Mr Chayapol said, citing an announcement of the Thai Meteorological Department, during July 7-12 the strong southwest monsoon will prevail across the Andaman Sea, the South and the Gulf of Thailand. This will lead to isolated heavy rain in the South and possible flash floods.

Waves are likely to be 2-3 metres high in the Andaman Sea and about 2 metres in the Gulf of Thailand from Surat Thani upward.

All vessels should proceed with caution, while small boats should stay ashore. People along the coastlines should beware of inshore surges.

Mr Chayapol said disaster prevention and mitigation offices in the 15 provinces have been instructed to put rapid mobile units with proper  equipment on alert to be dispatched to areas affected by natural disasters.