PHUKET: The island province of Phuket found itself submerged under sheets of water on Wednesday morning, as relentless rainfall turned bustling streets into temporary rivers. The incessant downpour caused significant flooding in several areas, particularly in Muang district. Among the most affected were parts of Patak, Chaloem Phrakiat, Chaofa Tawantok, and Wiset roads, leaving commuters in a soggy situation.
The Tha Kraeng intersection in tambon Talad Nuea became a virtual swimming pool, forcing traffic to come to a standstill. Motorists watched in disbelief as their daily routes transformed into daunting aquatic obstacles.
Kathu district didn’t escape the watery chaos either. In front of Wat Kathu, the revered temple appeared to float amid the floodwaters, while nearby Siko Market experienced unwelcome water visitors. Simon Cabaret Phuket, usually a hotspot for dazzling performances and glittery shows, found its entrance more suitable for canoes than the usual tourists.
As the gushing water took center stage, the province’s emergency services were thrust into action, working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents. Scenes of rescue operations and makeshift barriers sprang up, offering a testament to the community’s resilience and spirit in the face of Mother Nature’s tantrums. All eyes were on the weather forecasts, hoping for a glimmer of sunshine to break through the stubborn clouds.
Natural disasters like these are a clear sign that climate change is worsening. Phuket needs to invest in better infrastructure!
Climate change? These floods have always happened, and Phuket should’ve been better prepared.
While it’s true that floods are natural, the frequency and severity are increasing due to our environmental impact.
Exactly, Professor Roberts! Ignoring science won’t solve Thailand’s flood issues. Phuket should look into sustainable urban planning.
Isn’t it time that tourists stop visiting places that can’t handle such disasters?
Tourism is Phuket’s lifeline. Stopping tourists won’t help; better preparedness will.
True, but maybe a pause could help the local authorities sort things out.
Floods are unpredictable! How can anyone fully prepare for such a deluge?
Better planning and infrastructure can significantly mitigate the impact, Jess.
I visited Phuket last year. Sad to see such a beautiful place submerged. Hope locals are safe.
All those temples and markets, underwater? Heartbreaking!
Nature can be cruel, Emily, but the people of Phuket are resilient.
This highlights the need for international support in disaster-hit areas. Phuket should not face this alone.
Absolutely, Dr. Nguyen. Countries should collaborate more on disaster preparedness.
Poor planning and corruption are just as much to blame as the rain.
Traffic in Phuket is bad enough when dry; I can only imagine the chaos now!
It must be a nightmare for motorists and the emergency services trying to help.
Absolutely, Salma. Hats off to the emergency services workers.
Back in my day, we dealt with floods without all this drama. People need to toughen up.
Crazy how some people still downplay these severe weather events. Wake up, we need better city planning!
Spot on, Kamilla! Sustainable solutions now can save lives in the future.
Any word on the damage estimation? It’s going to cost a fortune to repair.
The community’s resilience is always so inspiring. Stay strong, Phuket!
Wonder how long it’ll take for Phuket to recover and be tourist-ready again.
Yet another reason to buy property inland. Beachfront is too risky with such weather.
Phuket’s economy relies heavily on tourism. Floods like these will have long-term repercussions if not managed properly.
Why are people always blaming the government when such things happen? Floods are natural disasters!
Because proper governance can reduce the impact of natural disasters, Ronnie. They need to be held accountable.
Fair point, PoliticalObserver, but the sheer volume of rain was insane. Not sure anyone could have fully prepared.
Can you imagine trying to get your groceries in knee-deep water?! Such a tough situation for the locals.
Hope Simon Cabaret can recover quickly. It’s a gem of Phuket!
Absolutely, Mikey. Phuket wouldn’t be the same without its vibrant entertainment spots.
Why are we even talking about climate change here? This is just a weather pattern. Happens every few years.
It’s the frequency and intensity, Jim. That’s increasing due to global warming.
What a blow to Phuket’s tourism industry! Hope they bounce back quickly.