Phuket orders heightened disaster preparations ahead of heavy rain and strong waves

Phuket authorities have ordered all districts, local administrative organisations and relevant government agencies to implement eight measures against heavy rain, flash floods, runoff and landslides, as well as strong waves, from 4 to 7 October 2026.

The Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command issued the urgent directive on 3 October, signed by the Phuket governor. The order followed weather monitoring and a Thai Meteorological Department warning about unsettled conditions, with the southwest monsoon continuing to cover the Andaman Sea and Thailand. The conditions could bring thunderstorms, gusty winds and heavy to very heavy rain in several areas.

Officials were instructed to closely monitor weather conditions and rainfall, particularly in high ground, low-lying areas and locations where soil is waterlogged. Machinery and personnel must be ready for immediate deployment.

Authorities must close natural tourist attractions if they become dangerous. If underpasses or tunnels are flooded, officials are to pump out the water, close them to traffic and maintain round-the-clock monitoring. Electricity should be cut at flooded locations to prevent leakage.

Warning signs must be installed to prohibit swimming during strong waves, while boat operators are to be urged to exercise extra caution. Authorities may prohibit boats from leaving shore if conditions deteriorate.

Officials were also told to begin pumping before water reaches critical levels and install additional pumps at flood-prone sites. Landslide and flash-flood risk areas must be monitored 24 hours a day, with residents warned to evacuate and move belongings to higher ground if the situation worsens.

The province ordered checks on warning towers, public-address systems, vehicles for moving affected people, flat-bottomed boats and water-rescue equipment to ensure they remain ready for use.

Residents can report emergencies to their local administrative organisation or district office, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department hotline at 1784, Phuket's emergency number 076-510098, or Line ID @1784DDPM. District officials must report conditions to the province daily until the situation returns to normal.

The provincial authorities urged residents and tourists to closely follow official announcements throughout the period.