Phuket –
Authorities in Phuket have issued an urgent disaster preparedness order as the province braces for severe weather conditions between May 19 and 21, 2026. The Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket) has directed all districts, local administrations, and relevant agencies to remain on full alert around the clock to safeguard residents and tourists.
The national DDPM, in coordination with the Southern West Coast Meteorological Center, has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong monsoon winds over the upper Andaman Sea. Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket are expected to be hardest hit, with risks of flash floods, landslides, and overflowing rivers, particularly in hillside and low-lying areas.
Emergency Measures
- Continuous Monitoring: Local agencies are ordered to track rainfall and water levels closely, especially in areas prone to landslides.
- Rapid Alerts: Public warnings must be issued immediately if conditions worsen, with evacuation protocols activated for at-risk communities.
- 24-Hour Readiness: Disaster response teams, machinery, and rescue equipment are to remain on standby for immediate deployment.
- Tourism Safety: Natural attractions will be closed if deemed unsafe, and access restricted to prevent accidents.
In city areas, officials are instructed to:
- Close flooded underpasses and tunnels.
- Pump out water swiftly to reduce traffic disruption.
- Cut electricity in inundated zones to prevent electrocution hazards.
- Operate installed water pumps preemptively before levels reach critical thresholds.
With rough seas expected, authorities have:
- Ordered warning signals along beaches.
- Banned swimming in the sea during the storm period.
- Urged boat operators to exercise extreme caution, with possible suspension of passenger services if conditions worsen.
Daily situation reports will be compiled and submitted to DDPM Phuket until conditions return to normal.
