Phuket rainfall tops 130mm as flooding recedes in some areas

Phuket recorded more than 130 millimetres of accumulated rainfall in 24 hours, with the highest reading of 130.8mm measured at Bang Wad Dam in Kathu at 8pm, according to the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office.

In a report issued at 9pm last night, the office said continuous rain had fallen across the province throughout the day. Baan Sakhu in Thalang recorded 121mm at 7pm, while Phuket Town recorded 116.2mm at 7pm.

Authorities said flooding in Kathu had largely returned to normal by last night, while water levels in Phuket Town and Thalang were steadily receding. Areas still affected by runoff and standing water included Soi Khok Yang in Rawai and parts of Sakhu, including Soi Bang Ma Lao 6, the area in front of City Hill Village behind Ban Sakhu School, and the road leading to the Marriott Nai Yang hotel.

Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn ordered officials from all local administrative organisations to inspect waterways, flood-prone locations and roadside drains. Crews worked to clear mud, rubbish and vegetation blocking drainage systems, while canals and drains were dredged in several areas and water pumps installed to speed up drainage.

Red warning flags were also raised along Phuket's beaches as authorities warned tourists against swimming during rough seas and strong winds.

Heavy rain disrupted traffic in several locations. Cherng Talay Police responded to flooding in Soi Pasak 8, where accumulated rainwater inundated the road. Officials said the flooding was worsened by a malfunctioning water pump that was under repair, though vehicles were still able to pass while officers monitored conditions and assisted motorists.

In Phuket Town, police temporarily closed traffic at Tha Kraeng Intersection on Sakdidet Road after flooding covered the road surface, and motorists were advised to avoid the route until conditions improved. Phuket City Municipality continued pumping water from low-lying areas near the Silver Hotel in Talad Yai last night. Officials said flooding on Luang Pho Road had already eased and traffic had returned to normal.

Patong Municipality officials also inspected flooding in Soi Khok Moo after heavy rain affected several areas of Patong, with local officials and disaster prevention officers deployed to assist residents and monitor the situation.

Separately, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation sent emergency crews and heavy machinery to clear fallen trees and reopen roads at four locations after strong winds and storms on Tuesday. Cleanup operations were carried out near the Mueang District Revenue Office, on Narisorn Road, at Saphan Hin and in Baan Kuku, Ratsada. Authorities said all affected roads had since been reopened safely.

Governor Nirat said proactive drainage work was continuing in high-risk areas, including Srisoonthorn in Thalang, where excavation work had already improved water flow.

Weather warnings remain in effect for Phuket and the Andaman coast through Saturday, May 24. The Southern Meteorological Centre (West Coast) warned of more heavy to very heavy rain, possible flash flooding and strong winds at sea over the coming days. Small boats have been advised to remain ashore, while residents were urged to closely monitor weather updates.