Whirlwind Strikes Phitsanulok: Homes, Temple and School Damaged

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

A violent whirlwind (small tornado - in Thai พายุงวงช้าง) swept through parts of Phitsanulok province on the evening of 24 July, leaving widespread damage in its wake. At least 20 homes were destroyed, along with significant damage to a local temple and school. One elderly man was injured in the storm and has been hospitalised.

The whirlwind struck Moo 4, Ban Tan Suwan in Don Thong subdistrict, Mueang district, causing destruction across the area. Dramatic video footage captured by residents shows the tornado forming over nearby rice fields before spiralling toward the village, uprooting trees and toppling utility poles. The resulting power outage affected a large portion of the community.

According to reports, 70-year-old Mr. Jamlong Boonkong sustained multiple lacerations from shattered glass during the incident. He was rushed to Buddhachinaraj Hospital for emergency treatment.

Village headwoman Ms. Disaya Renu-marn confirmed that more than 20 houses in Ban Tan Suwan were severely damaged. Wat Tad Suwan and the adjacent school building were also hit hard. At the temple, fallen trees crushed monks’ quarters and rooftops were torn apart. Residents and monks were seen working together to clear debris and make temporary repairs to the affected structures.

In neighbouring communities, including Hua Ro subdistrict, additional damage was reported, with more than 10 homes affected.

Authorities have alerted provincial and district-level disaster response agencies, including the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) and the Provincial Electricity Authority, to expedite aid and recovery operations.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-07-26