Heavy rain in Phuket: Governor visits affected community to help

Heavy rain in Phuket: Governor visits affected community to help

Heavy rain has caused significant flooding in Phuket in recent days, severely affecting communities. Today, October 22, 2025, Mr. Somawit Suphanpai, Deputy Governor of Phuket, is visiting the affected community on Luang Por Road in Tambon Talad Yai to explore the local situation and provide support. He is accompanied by Mayor Supachok Laongpech and other officials to alleviate the plight of the residents and provide first aid. Despite the heavy rains that hit parts of the island, the community is determined to stand by the affected citizens.

The current situation is worrying. Continued rain has caused water levels in the Bang Yai Canal to rise, necessitating local warnings. Mr. Supachok Laongpech directly ordered staff to distribute food packages and medicines to affected households, paying particular attention to vulnerable groups, including four households with immobile patients. There are also warnings for residents along the canal to monitor the official announcements. If there are any questions or emergencies, citizens can call the sanitized emergency numbers such as 199 for civil protection or 1132 for municipal administration.

Previous rains and their consequences

These floods are not the first to affect Phuket in recent times. In September 2024, an impressive 263 millimeters of rain fell in just 24 hours, causing serious local flooding and landslides. Thalang and Kathu districts were particularly affected, where many streets and houses were under water. At that time, over 740 households had to be evacuated and around 1,468 people sought refuge in emergency shelters. The most significant impacts included damage to furniture and household appliances and health concerns due to stagnant water.

During these dramatic times, local authorities mobilized emergency services to provide vital assistance and assess damage. Measures such as providing food and shelter and clearing debris were quickly implemented. Residents have also been advised to ensure their safety and urged to avoid flooded areas and have emergency kits ready.

Current challenges and future prospects

The current weather situation remains tense with heavy and persistent rain affecting numerous areas such as Wichitsongkram School, Kata and various intersections in Kathu. The local traffic police have informed that the draining of water is expected to take longer as the flood could prove to be a hindrance. Preventative measures to reduce risk are already being discussed, including improving drainage systems and implementing advanced weather forecasting technology.

While these measures are necessary going forward, immediate assistance to affected citizens remains paramount. Support also came from volunteers who helped with the cleanup and from local organizations who legitimized donations of food and other essential supplies. The solidarity of the community in times of crisis is more evident than ever.

Given these challenges, it is important that residents and tourists remain informed at all times. For emergencies, the tourist police can be contacted on 1155; for medical emergencies, the number 1669 is relevant. The authorities are striving to ensure everyone's safety and to manage the situation as best as possible.