Phuket governor distributes relief bags to Patong flood-affected residents

Phuket Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom distributed relief bags to Patong residents affected by floods and landslides on Nov 9, about two weeks after the disaster hit the area.

The supplies were handed out at about 9.30am at the Na Nai Multipurpose Pavilion in Soi 8, where residents gathered to register for assistance. Chotinarin spoke with residents about their living conditions and concerns, and said provincial authorities would continue supporting those affected.

He was accompanied by Phuket Red Cross Chapter President Paweerisa Kerdsom, Kathu District Chief Wittaya Jitsupap and Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri, as well as Red Cross members and representatives of relevant agencies. The governor thanked government agencies, local authorities, the military and other organisations for helping address immediate problems after the floods and landslides.

Chotinarin also called for longer-term prevention measures, including improvements to Patong’s drainage system, inspections of vulnerable areas and the removal of obstructions from natural waterways. He urged agencies to identify and address factors that could contribute to landslides and rockfalls.

He also called for regular flood and tsunami preparedness exercises. Dec 26, 2026, will mark 22 years since the 2004 tsunami, and he said exercises should ensure residents, officials and emergency agencies understand their roles during emergencies.