Flash Floods Force 500 Evacuations in Krabi; Durian Farmers Face Millions in Losses

Heavy rainfall in Krabi province led to flash floods, submerging homes and forcing residents to evacuate.

Footage shows water levels rising rapidly in Soi Suk Sawat, Ao Luek district, Krabi, reaching waist-high in some areas.

The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department issued timely warnings, with alerts continuing to be sent out.

Residents describe the rapid onset of the floodwaters, with some noting similar events in previous years.

The Governor of Krabi, along with naval and army units, visited the affected areas to assist in rescue and evacuation efforts.

Authorities are assessing the damage, and residents are urged to remain vigilant due to the ongoing rainy season.

In Sisaket, durian orchards suffered significant damage from strong winds and heavy rain, causing a substantial drop in fruit.

Visuals show durian trees bent by the storm, with fallen fruit collected in hundreds of baskets.

Farmworkers are sorting through fallen durians to assess damage and determine salvageable fruit for sale, potentially at reduced prices.

The storm has caused significant financial losses, estimated in the millions of baht, disrupting pre-existing sales contracts.

The durian orchard of Mr. Sornthong in Sisaket was heavily affected, with thousands of kilograms of fruit falling just days before harvest.

High-quality durians, normally priced at nearly 300 baht per kilogram, are being sold for as little as 5-15 baht due to storm damage.

A large pile of fallen durians is shown, collected after the storm passed the previous day.

An explanation of the 'Phu Kiao' durian's origin, linked to volcanic soil believed to enhance its flavor.