The Southern West Coast Meteorological Center, based near Phuket International Airport, issued Warning No. 8 at 5am, cautioning that a relatively strong southwest monsoon covering the upper Andaman Sea and Thailand’s west coast would continue to bring heavy to very heavy rain to parts of the region from May 20-24.
Phuket, along with Ranong, Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang and Satun, was named among provinces at risk of heavy rainfall, flash floods and possible landslides in vulnerable hillside and low-lying areas.
The warning followed hours of steady rain across Phuket this morning, which caused flooding on roads in Phuket Town, Kathu and Thalang, disrupting traffic in several areas.
Authorities reported rising water levels in canals and flood-prone locations as drainage crews worked to clear water from affected roads.
One of the worst-hit areas was near Tha Khraeng intersection on Sakdidet Rd, the route leading to Ao Makham, where flooding from the swollen Tha Khraeng Canal forced officials to temporarily close the road to all traffic at about 12:20pm.
Flooding was also reported at the Samkong Underpass, where water began accumulating in both inbound and outbound lanes by mid-morning.
In Cherng Talay, flooding was reported in Soi Cherng Talay 4 near the Roma Hotel, with motorcycles unable to pass through inundated sections of the road.
Phuket City Mayor Suppachokr Laongphet inspected water levels at Bang Yai Canal at noon today as continuous rainfall combined with a high tide expected at 12:57pm raised concerns about further flooding in parts of Phuket Town.
Mayor Suphachok ordered all pumping stations to operate continuously and instructed municipal workers to remain on alert while public warning vehicles were deployed to advise residents living along Bang Yai Canal to monitor official updates closely.
Residents in Talad Yai and Talad Nuea were urged to prepare for possible flooding and contact Phuket City Municipality for assistance if required.
In Kamala, the Kamala OrBorTor also issued a warning to residents living near canals and on hillsides to move belongings to higher ground and remain alert for possible flash floods or landslides.
Although rainfall eased in some areas later in the afternoon, officials warned that unstable weather conditions may continue over the coming days.
The Meteorological Center also warned of rough seas in the Andaman, with waves forecast at two to three metres high and exceeding three metres in storm areas. Small boats were advised to remain ashore while all vessels were urged to avoid thunderstorm zones.
Motorists across Phuket were advised to avoid flooded roads where possible and exercise caution due to slippery surfaces and reduced visibility during periods of heavy rain.
Additonal reporting by Eakkapop Thongtub