Apparently that was exactly what happened. Fear of the unknown reason for the sudden low tide saved several lives. I am hearing on the radio that perhaps my earlier, hopeful post on Ko Phi Phi was premature as some officials are estimating in excess of 200 dead there. As you can immagine, Thai journalism is a little chaotic just now. I mention their reports but give no support to their accuracy.
Some 200 long tail boats are missing with their owners and any passengers. This is by far the best way to see the beauty of Pang Nga bay -- truely one of the most spectacular sights in the world. However, these are not rough water craft. Usually the sea is very calm there. I cannot believe that these boats could survive the waves I have seen pictures of. Half of the 200 boats would likely be fishermen and the other half tourist boats carrying 2 to 10 passengers.