A High Number Of Natural Disasters In Thailand In 2006

[Jai Dee]

Dep MiR reports high number of natural disasters in Thailand in 2006

The Director general of the Department of Mineral Resources said that in 2006 an unprecedented number of earthquakes occured in Thailand.

The Director general of the Department of Mineral Resources, Mr. Apichai Chawacharoenpan (อภิชัย ชวเจริญพันธ์), reported that throughout 2006, Thailand has experienced numerous natural disasters, including earthquakes and landslides in 30 provinces.

Mr. Apichai said that the 3 most affected provinces were Uddaradit, Sukothai, and Phrae, where landslides occured on May 22, with more than 2000 landslides taking place, and 80 fatalities reported. 700 residence were destroyed and 3000 damaged. 480,000 hectares of farmland were inundated.

The Director general of the Department of Mineral Resources added that 16 notable earthquakes occured in the central of Thailand, and in the central regions of neighboring nations.

The latest earthquake occured in Mae Rim district of Chiang Mai province from 12-13 December, and measured 5.1 on the Richter scale.

Mr. Apichai said his agency would develop prevention plans to reduce the effects of natural disasters on local residents.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 29 December 2006