Operators of tour boats and small fishing boats in the southern coastal province of Phang-nga have been told to stay ashore because of rough seas and high waves as a result of the southwest moonsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea.

Nochapong Pranit, director of the Phang-Nga Marine Office, said winds are very strong and waves very high in the sea off Phangnga, particularly at Na Tai beach in Tambon Khok Kloy of Takua Thung district.

The famous beach is now deserted as tourists are heeding the storm warning, he said.

Operators of tour boats and resorts have put up signs prohibiting tourists from going into the sea for swimming. They have been told to stay tuned to weather forecast.

He said waves in the Andaman Sea are 2-3 metres high and 3 metres or higher in areas with thunder-showers. People living along the eastern and western coats should also watch out for inshore surges, he added.