SONGKHLA: Swirling storm winds have blown down many trees and damaged buildings at Tone Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary in Hat Yai district, and the famous waterfall has been closed to the public for at least three days to allow a cleanup.
Wildlife sanctuary chief Isaraphun Boonmas said on Wednesday the storm on Tuesday evening had brought down 42 trees and damaged six buildings and three visitors' vehicles.
It was the worst damage since it was declared a wildlife preservation area in 1978, he added. (continues below)
"The storm caught us off guard because the weather looked okay. Suddenly, a strong wind came up, and a downpour that lasted about 20 minutes. The wind swirled around the office building and then moved up to the first level of the waterfall," he said.
The sanctuary is home to Tone Nga Chang waterfall, the most famous waterfall in the province.
About 100 workers have been deployed to clear the debris left by the storm.
Mr Isaraphun said the sanctuary would be closed until at least Friday, until all the fallen trees were cleared, to ensure the safety of visitors.
The cost of the damage had not been assessed.
