Heavy rain hits Surat Thani, Samui tourist missing in rough sea

[Nicke]

SURAT THANI, Dec 7 (TNA) – A foreign tourist heading out to sea off Samui island in a kayak is missing after being hit by a three-metre wave, while torrential rains last night may caused a flash flood in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat.Marine police were informed that the missing tourist was last seen about two kilometres off Samui island in Surat Thani province Wednesday morning. Witnesses said that the man's kayak -- an especially sea-worthy and water-tight craft -- was smashed by a wave estimated to be three-metres high.

Rescue workers are searching for the tourist, whose identity has not been established.

Meanwhile, Nakhon Si Thammarat remains an official disaster area following last month's declaration by the governor when it faced this year's first seasonal flooding.

Relief centres have been re-established in every district to prevent imminent losses from another possible flash flood.

The local weather centre warned residents in Nakhon Si Thammarat of incessant rain and heavy downpours Dec 7-8, which can cause inundation -- especially in the low-lying municipality and its environs.

Residents have been advised to move their belongings to higher ground in advance as a flash flood is expected to affect the town Wednesday evening. (TNA)