Phuket is determined to avoid a disastrous repeat of the severe flooding that occurred on June 30, as the island’s residents prepare for potentially heavy downpours from Saturday to Wednesday. (Photo: Achadthaya Chuenniran)
All agencies on Phuket island are on high alert after weather forecasters issued a warning of possible torrential rain along the Andaman Coast, which could lead to strong winds, floods, and rough seas. Phuket’s Deputy Governor, Srattha Thongkham, circulated an urgent notice on Thursday, directing all districts and local administrative organizations to be vigilant for incoming storms that could bring significant damage to the resort island.
The instruction, marked “very urgent,” emphasized the need to closely monitor conditions and keep residents informed. There are concerns that the downpours could trigger flash floods, mudslides, and landslides, with the risk of reservoirs overflowing.
This proactive measure follows a warning issued by the Meteorological Department office on the Andaman coast about the likelihood of more rain and potential heavy downpours in various coastal provinces from Saturday to Wednesday. “The public should be aware of dangers from heavy and very heavy rain during this period,” the statement read.
On June 30, continuous rains plunged Phuket into chaos, submerging the holiday island in water, disrupting traffic, and causing inbound and outbound flight delays. Some airlines had to reroute their planes to other airports to avoid the adverse conditions.
Mr. Srattha highlighted on Thursday that all tourist sites and flood-prone areas must be closed if officials deem them at risk once the storms reach the island. Beaches should be marked with red flags to warn swimmers of the danger, while passenger and fishing boats are strongly advised to remain close to the coastline due to the threat of high waves.
Officials and volunteers are recommended to be on standby, ready to evacuate people and their belongings to higher ground if they anticipate flooding, mudslides, or landslides. This proactive approach aims to protect residents and tourists alike from potential hazards brought on by the looming heavy rains.
It’s frightening to think about the potential for flooding and mudslides. Kudos to the officials for being proactive this time.
I agree, but wouldn’t it make more sense to invest in better infrastructure rather than last-minute warnings?
Exactly! They should work on permanent solutions, not just emergency responses.
True, but with climate change, they probably didn’t anticipate how severe rains could get. Better late than never!
Knowing Phuket, they’ll still let tourists swim even with the red flags. They’ve always been lax about safety.
That’s a bit harsh. I’m sure they’ll do their best to enforce the warnings.
We’ll see, but I’m skeptical. I’ve seen them ignore warnings before for the sake of tourism money.
I swam during a red flag warning once and it was fine. People overreact.
Sunseeker69, that’s reckless behavior. It’s not worth the risk!
I visited Phuket last year, cannot imagine how scary it must be for the residents to deal with such threats regularly.
Yeah, living near the coast comes with risks. But it’s their home, and they do what they can to protect it.
I’m just glad they’re closing tourist sites and not prioritizing money over people’s safety this time.
Agreed. It’s a tricky balance between safety and economics, but well-being should always come first.
Ironically, closing sites could cost them more if it leads to fewer tourists and long-term economic damage.
True WallaceG, but what’s the alternative? Putting lives at risk isn’t a sustainable choice.
Climate change is real and affecting places like Phuket. When will people wake up and start caring about the planet?
I think the media is exaggerating it. Flooding happens everywhere, not just because of climate change.
Lucas, your ignorance is part of the problem. We need to acknowledge and act on climate change now.
Lucas, the frequency and severity of these floods have definitely increased. It’s not just ‘normal’ flooding anymore.
Phuket should have a more robust emergency system. Every year it’s the same story when monsoon season hits.
I hope the government is providing real-time updates and not just creating panic without proper solutions.
Emergency preparedness drills and proper evacuation plans can make a world of difference. Are they implementing these effectively?
Dr. Patel, from what I’ve read, they do have drills, but the execution in real situations often falls short.
That’s troubling. Effective drills can save lives and reduce chaos during actual emergencies.
This level of preparedness is commendable. Let’s hope it all goes smooth without any major incidents.
I hope so too, Fred. Last time was a nightmare!
How is this going to affect the upcoming tourist season? Anyone got insights?
It’s hard to say, Lina. If they manage the situation well, it might not deter tourists much.
I’m worried about the wildlife too. Flash floods can be harmful to the island’s ecosystems.
I think there should be a focus on educating locals on quick and efficient evacuation procedures.
Evacuations aren’t as simple as people think. They require planning and public compliance, which isn’t always easy to achieve.
What about the infrastructure damages from the last flood? Are they already repaired?
Good question, Salvadore. I haven’t heard much about repairs being completed.
For a place that relies so heavily on tourism, they should have disaster management down to a science by now.