The impact of the Northeastern monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand has weakened thereby reducing the intensity of the winds and waves. The situation is returning to normal. However the impact of the monsoon is expected to intensify on 28 December 2006.

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT PROVINCE
Laem Thalumpuk Cape, Pak Phanang district suffered some damage. The observatory at the end of the cape, one of the province’s key tourist attractions, is closed to visitors until further notice.

SONGKHLA PROVINCE
Strong winds are sending up to three-metre-high waves surging towards Samila Beach. Fortunately, an extensive breakwater shields the entire coastline and breaks the force of the advancing waves.

The only area that has been seriously impacted by the surging waves is the village of Baan Nanap in Na Tap sub-district, Chana district. Tourism attractions in Songkhla province have not been affected. Small vessels have been warned not to venture out to sea. However leisure cruises are operating normally.

SURAT THANI
The situation has improved. The Raja Ferry and SeaTran ferry services are operating normally. Tourism operators on the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Pangan are preparing to welcome visitors over the festive/New Year holidays.

Contact information:
TAT Southern Office – Region 1
Areas of responsibility: Songkhla (Hat Yai) and Satun
Tel: 0 7423 1055, 0 7423 8518, 0 7424 3747
Fax: 0 7424 5986
E-mail: tatsgkhl@tat.or.th

TAT Southern Office – Region 2
Areas of responsibility: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang and Phattalung
Tel: 0 7534 6515-6
Fax: 0 7534 6517
E-mail: tatnksir@tat.or.th

TAT Southern Office – Region 5
Areas of responsibility: Surat Thani, Chumphon, Ranong
Tel: 0 7728 8818-9
Fax: 0 7728 2828
E-mail: tatsurat@tat.or.th