Heavy rain and a high tide caused widespread flooding in Thailand’s southern provinces of Songkhla, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Narathiwat on Sunday.

Red flags are being flown on Chalatat beach in Songkhla, to advise people not to venture into the sea, due to waves of up to 4 metres and strong winds.

In Narathiwat province, irrigation officials have advised thoseliving close to the Kolok River to be ready to move their valuables to higher ground and to monitor water situation closely, as the water level in the river may rise quickly.

Low-lying areas in Bo Ngo sub-district of Narathiwat are now flooded, making it impossible for cars and motorcycles to access several villages.

In Mueang district of Nakhon Si Thammarat, local administration officials have urged people living near the Pak Nakhon estuary to move their valuables to higher ground, to avoid a high tide which will cause flooding until it ebbs.

People living at the foot of the Khao Luang mountain range,which straddles Nopphitam, Phrom Khiri, Sichon and Lan Saka districts, have been told to brace for flash floods and mud slides.

In Surat Thani Province, the provincial administration has ordered the suspension of all boat services today (Sunday) andtomorrow, from the mainland to Samui, Tao and Pha-ngan islands, all of which are popular with tourists, due to high waves and rough seas.

Source: Thai Public Broadcasting Service