Thailand - Storm batters Si Sa Ket durian orchards, losses hit B39m
A summer storm caused extensive damage to durian plantations in Kantharalak district, toppling hundreds of trees and wiping out tonnes of Thailand’s economic crop just days before harvest, local officials said on Thursday.Following the storm, district chief Somkuan Singkham ordered an urgent survey in tambon Phu Ngern, where strong winds and thunderstorms hit five villages, damaging durian orchards belonging to 110 farmers.The affected fruit is a geographical indication (GI) product known as “Sisaket Volcanic Area Durian,” grown in Khun Han, Kantharalak and Si Rattana districts. Popular varieties include Monthong, Chanee and Kanyao, prized for their creamy texture, mild aroma and relatively dry flesh.