Phuket Launches Emergency Response to Combat Flash Floods

[snoop1130]

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News

 

Phuket is mounting a robust emergency response as officials work to prevent flash floods and landslides amid heavy rain across the island. With forecasts predicting more downpours, the Phuket governor has issued an urgent call to action for all district chiefs and local government leaders to take immediate preventative measures.

 

Wichit Sutthaso, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, reported that the provincial command centre activated district-level emergency teams on April 16, urging local administrative organisations to bolster flood defences. Efforts include dredging canals, clearing drains of debris, and removing weeds to facilitate water flow through aging infrastructure.

 

In response, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation deployed 36 water pumps to vulnerable locations, with 23 already placed in high-risk zones:

 

• Phuket Town: 9 sites, 10 pumps
• Thalang: 9 sites, 10 pumps
• Kathu: 2 sites, 3 pumps

 

Additionally, 13 emergency pumps, including varied-sized units, are on standby for deployment where needed most.

 

 

 

Local municipalities have launched proactive measures to ensure community safety. In the Ratsada subdistrict, Deputy Mayor Pranom Kaewprang led teams to assess rising water levels, employing fire trucks to wash roads and initiating drainage clean-ups. In the Wichit subdistrict, engineering teams addressed blocked waterways by clearing fallen trees and debris in key residential areas.

 

Phuket City officials have distributed sandbags to residents in areas such as Talat Nuea and Talat Yai, providing emergency barriers to protect homes at risk of flooding. The Luang Pho Community received additional protective measures as pre-emptive safeguards against water intrusion.

 

The Phuket Area 18 Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Centre is on high alert, having mobilised machinery and personnel to support provincial efforts 24/7. Officials urge residents to remain vigilant, stay informed through updates from local agencies, and seek emergency assistance if required.

 

By coordinating a comprehensive island-wide response, Phuket aims to mitigate the impact of severe weather, prioritising the safety and well-being of its communities, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-04-18

 

 

[LivingNThailand]

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Efforts include dredging canals, clearing drains of debris, and removing weeds to facilitate water flow through aging infrastructure.

Key words:  aging infrastructure

Phuket is building, building, building and not doing anything with the infrastructure.   Infrastructure first!  Then build.  In my dreams, I guess.