Speaking to The Phuket News this morning, PLC President Prathaiyut Chuayuan responded to a report yesterday that swimming had been banned at all Phuket beaches due to dangerous surf.
“There wasn't an absolute ban on swimming. We just closed off certain sections of some beaches, which we deemed too dangerous for swimming. Parts of Nai Harn, Patong and Mai Khao, for example were closed, and we will continue to post red flags, especially where we notice rip tides in the area,” he explained.
“But swimming will still be permitted at many beaches if there is no signs of danger. The best way to know [whether or not swimming is restricted] is for beach-goers to pay attention to the flags and signs posted,” he said.
Mr Prataiyut took the opportunity to extend the invitation to all swimming instructors at local schools to get in touch with the PLC about hosting swim and surf training demonstrations by emailing the PLC.
“Surf and swim education continues to be a priority for the PLC and we're pleased to host local students for demonstrations at the beach, or send lifeguards to do demonstrations at local schools, free of charge,” he said.
For enquiries, email thailifeguard@gmail.com or call 081-8925549 (English and Thai).
According to the Phuket office of the Thai Meteorological Department, low tide today will be at 10.34am, and high tide at 4:45pm. Wind will be mainly coming from the southwest at speeds of about 20kph and gusts of up to 40kph, with wave heights between two to three meters.