After a strong wind blew away one of Thailand’s naval vessels, more than 70 sailors were rescued from the Gulf of Thailand.
When it was hit by bad weather, the HTMS Sukhothai corvette patrolled at sea for 20 miles from Bangsaphan district in Prachuap Khan province.
The seawater blew onto the warship, knocking out its electrical system.
Three frigates were sent by the Royal Thai Navy – HTMS Ang Thong HTMS Bhumibol HTMS Kraburi – and two helicopters equipped with mobile pumping machines to drain the water.
However, the strong winds rendered the mission impossible.
The ship began to sink as more seawater poured onto it.
The navy reported that 75 sailors were rescued in the early hours Monday morning (UK time), and ships and helicopters searched for 31 more.
Eleven patients are being treated at the hospital currently.
Navy published photos showing people in orange vests seated in black inflatable rafts with waves rising around them in the dark.
Sukhothai was constructed in the USA and has been in use ever since 1987.
Thailand is experiencing extreme weather conditions recently. The country’s central and northern parts are experiencing the coldest temperatures this year.
There have been floods and storms in the far south. Ships were warned to stay on shore.
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