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Governor urges continued caution after storm sweeps across Phuket

Governor urges continued caution after storm sweeps across Phuket

PHUKET: Governor Sophon Suwannarat has urged the public to remain cautious in the aftermath of the storm passing across Phuket on Sunday after just a few hours of heavy rain and strong winds.


By The Phuket News

Tuesday 22 July 2025 08:33 AM


Photo: PR Phuket

Photo: PR Phuket

While the storm’s direct impact was brief, its effects were felt across all three districts ‒ Mueang, Thalang and Kathu ‒ affecting 17 subdistricts (tambon), 32 villages (moo baan) and nine communities (chumchon).

One person died and another was injured when a large tree fell on beach chairs on Koh Hey, officials confirmed during a press briefing at Provincial Hall on Monday (July 21).

The governor, joined by Wichit Sutthaso, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket), said disaster areas had been declared in all affected districts to allow for the rapid mobilisation of state assistance in accordance with Ministry of Finance regulations.

Despite the storm weakening into a tropical depression, heavy rain and hazardous conditions are expected to continue over the coming days due to the influence of the strong southwest monsoon.

The Meteorological Department has forecast ongoing rainfall, particularly in Phuket, Ranong and Phang Nga, until at least Thursday (July 24), and warned of the risk of flash floods, runoff and landslides.

In light of these conditions, Governor Sophon asked the public ‒ especially boat operators ‒ to avoid unnecessary travel and to refrain from sailing while strong winds and high waves persist.

“Even though the storm has passed, we are still seeing unstable weather and rough seas,” he said. “We ask for continued cooperation from all sectors, especially small boats, to stay ashore until the situation improves.”

Waves in the upper Andaman Sea remain strong at two to four metres, and more than four metres in stormy areas. In the lower Andaman, waves are two to three metres and higher near thunderstorms. All vessels are advised to proceed with caution, while small boats are urged not to leave port during this period.

Phuket officials said they had been monitoring the situation closely since Saturday (July 19). Warnings were issued for flash flooding and landslides, and the province activated its 2025 Flood, Windstorm and Mudslide Disaster Response Plan, which includes pre-identified risk zones, evacuation shelters, emergency equipment, and clear roles for local agencies, said an official report of the meeting.

In the storm’s aftermath, teams from the Phuket Highway District and Provincial Electricity Authority, along with local officials, worked through the night to clear fallen trees from roads and homes. Traffic has now resumed as normal across the island, the report said.

The province has also opened local assistance centres to take damage reports and provide initial help to affected residents. Further aid assessments are ongoing.

Authorities will continue monitoring the situation through Thursday and urge the public to follow weather advisories and local announcements closely.