Three Tourists Rescued After Being Swept Out to Sea by Strong Currents in Khanom

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture from bystanders.

 

Three tourists, including one Thai national and two foreigners, were rescued after being pulled out to sea by strong waves while swimming at Tal Khu Beach in Khanom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat.

 

The incident occurred on the evening of 30 December when the tourists ventured into the water despite rough sea conditions. Strong currents swept the group several dozen metres from shore, leaving them struggling against large waves.

 

Emergency responders from the Khanom Subdistrict Municipality’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Unit and local rescue teams deployed a jet ski to reach the victims. Despite the challenging conditions, all three were successfully brought back to shore.

 

The victims, a 41-year-old Thai national and two foreign tourists, were found in a state of shock and exhaustion. Initial first aid was provided on-site before two of the tourists, were transported to Khanom Hospital for further medical evaluation. The third tourist declined hospital treatment.

 

Tal Khu Beach is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the New Year holiday season. However, strong winds and rough seas have been reported in the area due to prevailing weather conditions.

 

The Southern Meteorological Department has issued a warning for severe weather in the Gulf of Thailand, caused by a high-pressure system from China and a strengthened northeast monsoon. These conditions are creating heavy rainfall in parts of southern Thailand and rough seas with strong waves.

 

Authorities are urging tourists to exercise caution when swimming during these hazardous conditions to ensure their safety.

 

-- 2025-01-01