In Patong, Mayor Lalita Maneesri has issued a public advisory urging revellers to prioritise health and safety during water play, particularly amid expected high temperatures.
The guidance encourages participants to wear light, breathable clothing, stay hydrated and apply sunscreen before heading out. During celebrations, people are advised to drink water regularly, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm, and refrain from using ice-cold water, which officials warn could cause shock or illness.
“Watch for signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness or overheating, and seek help immediately,” the notice stated, adding that playing in groups is safer than going alone.
The safety push comes as Patong prepares to host the 11th Annual Thai Water Festival at Patong Beach from tomorrow through Songkran Day, on Monday (Apr 11-13).
Ahead of the festivities, Patong Municipality held a community event on Wednesday (Apr 8) at the Nanai Community Office, where Mayor Lalita presided over merit-making activities aimed at preserving local traditions.
Residents, officials and police joined ceremonies including alms-giving, bathing of Buddha images and the traditional water-pouring ritual to seek blessings from elders ‒ a key cultural element of Songkran.
Municipal officials said the initiative was designed to strengthen unity and pass on Thai customs to younger generations.
PHUKET TOWN
In Phuket Town, the municipality has announced free water play zones at three key locations on Monday: Saphan Hin Roundabout, Surin Circle (Clocktower Roundabout) and outside the municipal fire station on Krabi Rd, operating from 10am to 3pm.
Officials have stressed that celebrations must remain respectful and alcohol-free.
“We invite everyone to enjoy water play while maintaining the beauty of Thai culture,” the municipality said in its announcement.
The day will begin with a merit-making ceremony at King Rama X Commemoration Park (Saphan Hin) at 6:20am, featuring alms-giving, Buddha bathing rituals and blessings from elders.
Deputy Mayor Prasit Sinsawapak joined community members yesterday (Apr 9) in a pre-Songkran ceremony, highlighting the importance of preserving traditions and fostering intergenerational ties.
A major highlight this year is the ‘Songkran No Alcohol Phuket’ event on Dibuk Rd and at Queen Sirikit Park on Monday.
Running from 4pm to 10pm, the free-entry event will feature live music, DJs, traditional activities and food, with organisers promoting a family-friendly, alcohol-free environment.
ISLANDWIDE
Elsewhere, Chalong Municipality has announced road closures along Soi Ta-iad on Monday from 7am to 9am and again from midday to 10pm to accommodate local celebrations.
In Cherng Talay, the OrBorTor will host a morning Songkran event at Wat Anamai Kasem (Wat Bang Tao) starting at 8am, featuring processions, Buddha bathing ceremonies and water-pouring rituals for elders.
Across Phuket, officials are reinforcing a consistent message: enjoy the festivities, but do so safely and respectfully.
Key reminders include avoiding alcohol during water play, staying hydrated, limiting sun exposure and respecting others during celebrations.
With events spanning beaches, communities and town centres, authorities say Songkran 2026 is set to deliver both vibrant celebrations and meaningful cultural experiences ‒ while keeping public safety at the forefront.