Here the lifeguard (not the lifesavers) has the authority and responsibility to close the beach. That only means that they cross over the flags and put up signs saying that the beach is closed, it does not make it illegal to enter the surf.

I am surprised to hear that. along the coast of California most jurisdictions give powers to lifeguards similar to those given to firefighters. Most can even write citations for such things.

Not Kata but On Nai Harn yesterday.

I was standing talking to 2 of the lifeguards about how big the surf was when unbelievably on both ends of the beach people entered the sea, we looked at each other in amazement and said a few words I will not say on here.They both went racing off to hopefully give these idiots a right bollocking.

Have attached a few photos.

Nai Harn was looking quite sad and battered

Driving along rawai beach yesterday in between heavy squalls and saw they had some equipment tending to a huge section of the walkway/breakwall that was ripped away along with a big tree that was down.