A summer storm struck durian plantations in Kantharalak district, Si Sa Ket province (northeastern Thailand), toppling around 450 trees and destroying an estimated 390 tonnes of fruit just days before harvest, local officials said Thursday. The damage, affecting 110 farmers across five villages, has been valued at approximately 39 million baht (around USD 1.1 million), with the lost crop belonging to a geographically protected variety known as "Sisaket Volcanic Area Durian," prized for its creamy texture and mild flavour. The timing is especially damaging as Thailand prepares for peak durian export season, with national supply forecast to reach 1.78 million tonnes this year and fresh durian exports already running at over 10 billion baht in January alone.