Two people have been found dead and at least seven are still missing after over 20 small fishing boats capsized during a freak storm off Thailand’s southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

45 people have been rescued, some of whom are still in hospital. 23 boats have been towed ashore and three others are yet to be salvaged. Another vessel reported engine problems in the rough seas.

The search continues today (Monday) in the seas off Pak Phanang district, with three marine police boats and a helicopter from Air Wing 7 in Surat Thani, said Nakhon Si Thammarat Governor Apinan Puakpong.

He added that the boats affected by the storm are from Sichon, Tha Sala, Mueang and Pak Phanang districts.

The storm reportedly hit without any warning sign, catching the boat crews by surprise.