BANGKOK, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Storms in southern Thailand have damaged about 90 houses and brought down at least eight power poles across tourism attraction Phuket, local disaster prevention authorities said on Monday.

Officials from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation of Phuket said at least 90 households in 21 villages in Phuket Province have suffered damage.

The damage is estimated at nearly 300,000 baht (about 9,000 U.S. dollars) so far, most of which is to roofs and cars, according to the department.

More than eight power poles fell down. Police were dispatched to the scene to help direct traffic.

Phuket has been battered by heavy rains and strong winds up to 45 km per hour on Monday, which is expected to last until Wednesday. Boats are urged to stay ashore.

Officials warned that there would be more flash floods as a monsoon is affecting the west coast of southern Thailand.