Phuket is on the brink of a water shortage if the anticipated rainy season is delayed and doesn't bring substantial rainfall within three months. The island currently possesses 12 million cubic meters of raw water across its reservoirs, only slightly over half their full capacity. According to Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, this amount should suffice until the end of June, with hopes that the upcoming rains will replenish the reservoirs.
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The Southern Meteorological Centre on the Andaman Coast forecasts that this year's rainy season in the South should begin around April 20 or by early May at the latest. Seasonal rains are expected to alleviate concerns over the water situation for the coming months. However, the mountainous terrain of the island poses challenges in building additional reservoirs and managing flood control, impacting efficient water management.
Plans are in place to import water from neighboring regions, including a proposal to transport water from Ratchaprapha Dam in Surat Thani province via a 300-kilometer pipeline. Unfortunately, this project has not yet been initiated, leaving the island reliant on current resources.
As the island braces for potential shortages, local governance is under pressure to implement sustainable solutions promptly. There are significant concerns about ensuring residents and the tourist industry have adequate water supplies, especially during peak visitation periods. The lack of immediate infrastructure measures could lead to increased vulnerability if water scarcity becomes severe, reported Bangkok Post.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 24 Mar 2026