Phuket issued a warning for flash floods and landslides as heavy to very heavy rain is forecast across southern Thailand from December 11 to 16.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) announced that intense rainfall is expected throughout the South, prompting Phuket to order all relevant agencies to remain on full alert for floods, flash floods, landslides, and strong waves along the coast.
The DDPM’s central office is coordinating with the Meteorological Department to closely monitor weather developments. Phuket’s Provincial DDPM instructed district units, local emergency centers, and related agencies to speed up readiness measures to minimize risks.
District officials were told to monitor rainfall levels, weather data, and high-risk areas, especially hillside locations or water-soaked soil that could trigger landslides or sudden flooding. Immediate warnings must be issued if reservoirs reach more than 80% of their storage capacity.
Local authorities have also been ordered to keep a close watch on hazardous zones, particularly natural tourist sites. They must issue warnings and close these areas immediately if heavy rain creates unsafe conditions.
In the event of flooding, existing water pumps must be activated before levels reach critical points, and additional pumps will be installed to improve drainage capacity. Officials will also check water colour and turbidity as part of landslide-risk surveillance.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates from government agencies and comply with any warnings issued by local authorities. People are reminded to avoid electrical risks during floods and to follow swimming bans at beaches with dangerous conditions.
Boat operators and fishermen are urged to navigate carefully, with the possibility of a full ban on boats leaving shore if weather conditions worsen.
Residents can report emergencies or request assistance via the DDPM hotline 1784, by calling 076-510098, or through Line ID @1784DDPM.
Source: The Thaiger