Thailand: Thousands swarm over beaches on the first day of a long national holiday despite warnings from health officials

Families celebrate Songkran, the Thai New Year, at a beach resort in Klaeng district, Rayong province on April 13, 2021. - AFP

BANGKOK, Thailand (AP): Thailand recorded a third day in a row with more than 900 coronavirus cases on Tuesday, as thousands of people swarmed to beaches on the first day of a long national holiday despite warnings from health officials.

Dr. Opas Karnkavinpong, director-general of Disease Control Department, warned that possible lockdowns will be implemented next week when people return to the cities after the traditional New Year festival, known as Songkran. He said the government will implement a work-from-home order for all public services after the holiday.