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Southern Thailand on flash-flood alert as Phuket checks pumps

Thailand's meteorological service warned on 12 October of very heavy rain and flash floods in six southern provinces, with two-metre waves in the Andaman Sea. Phuket officials checked the island's drainage pumps the same day.

Kylian Dev

A street in a southern Thai town covered by shallow floodwater after monsoon rain
Photo: Forbes Johnston · CC BY 2.0

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In short

  • Warning issued at 5am on 12 October for Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.
  • Andaman waves about two metres, higher in thunderstorms; mariners told to avoid storm areas.
  • Third flash-flood warning since 4 October, called by the centre the last for this event.
  • France's foreign ministry reports flooding in more than 20 provinces since 25 September, mainly central Thailand.

What to do

  1. 1Check the Thai Meteorological Department and your ferry operator before any Andaman crossing.
  2. 2Avoid low-lying ground, streambeds and landslide-prone slopes during downpours.
  3. 3Follow provincial announcements in Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi and the Trang islands.

Who is affected?

The warning covers Ranong, Phang Nga (Khao Lak), Phuket, Krabi (Ao Nang, Railay, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta), Trang and Satun. Waves in the Andaman Sea were about two metres and can run higher in thunderstorms. Our Thailand ferries guide covers the crossings; the rainy season page explains what October brings to each coast.

  • Andaman coast: flash floods and forest runoff possible in low-lying, high-risk areas
  • Sea crossings: operators advised to check conditions before departing
  • Central Thailand: flooding in more than 20 provinces since 25 September

What has not changed?

No airport, ferry or road closure is reported. The Thai centre called its 12 October notice the final announcement for this weather event, and The Phuket News reported clear radar over the island after isolated heavy showers that morning. France's advisory, updated the same day, says heavy rain is expected in the south from 12 October. General risk advice is in our Is Thailand safe? guide.

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Sources

We cross-check each story against official pages and several media, and rewrite it in our own words for travellers.

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