The warning follows an alert issued by the Meteorological Centre for the West Coast of Southern Thailand, which reported that a strengthening southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea would bring increased rainfall and rough sea conditions, particularly affecting Ranong, Phang Nga and Phuket.
The Southern-West Coast Meteorological Centre, based near Phuket International Airport, today forecast an 80% chance of thunderstorms and heavy to very heavy rain in some areas from 6am today (May 20) until 6am tomorrow.
Southwest winds were forecast at 20-40 kilometres per hour, with waves expected to reach 2-3 metres high and exceed 3m in areas experiencing thunderstorms.
Meteorological officials also reported accumulated rainfall in Phuket for May had already reached 242.3 millimetres, while total rainfall for the year stood at 394.6mm. Rainfall recorded yesterday measured 27.8mm.
Officials warned of the risk of flash floods, forest runoff and flooding in low-lying areas as rainfall intensifies over the three-day period.
Provincial authorities said Phuket has already prepared personnel, machinery and disaster prevention equipment to respond to any emergencies. Residents in risk-prone areas have been urged to closely monitor weather updates and follow instructions from officials.
The province also confirmed that warnings would be issued for natural tourist attractions and that dangerous areas may be temporarily closed if conditions worsen. Disaster prevention officers and related agencies have been instructed to remain on 24-hour standby.
Specific measures have also been prepared for different emergency scenarios.
For rough sea conditions, officials said warning systems have been installed, boat operators have been alerted and tourists have been advised against entering the sea during periods of strong waves and dangerous currents.
In flood-prone areas, local authorities have been ordered to speed up drainage operations, deploy water pumps before water levels become critical and station officers in high-risk zones to monitor the situation.
For areas vulnerable to landslides and flash floods, officials said teams would monitor soil and water conditions around the clock, install warning signs and notify residents to move belongings to higher ground or evacuate if necessary.
Residents requiring assistance during severe weather have been advised to contact the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation hotline at 1784 or Phuket disaster officials at 076-210089.