Accident Fierce Storm Capsizes Local Fishing Boat off Phuket, One Rescued, One Missing

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

A small fishing boat capsized in rough seas off the coast of Phuket during the afternoon of 23 June, leading to one fisherman being rescued and another still missing as search efforts continue amid strong winds and heavy rain.

 

The incident occurred around 16:10, approximately one kilometre off the Thasak Pier in Pa Khlok Subdistrict, Thalang District. According to the Andaman Narenthorn Centre, two local fishermen were on board the boat when it overturned due to rough conditions. One man managed to swim back to shore safely, while the other was last seen clinging to the vessel for about 20 minutes before disappearing.

 

In response, Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Director of the Third Naval Area Command’s Maritime Security Coordination Centre (MSCC), ordered an immediate mobilisation of search and rescue teams. Naval personnel from Phuket’s Navy base deployed inflatable boats and a patrol vessel from the MSCC was dispatched alongside a jet ski team to aid the search.

 

Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation has also joined the operation, deploying divers and inflatable boats to assist in the rescue efforts. All relevant local agencies have been alerted and are supporting the ongoing search.

 

However, progress has been hampered by the severe weather conditions, with officials reporting intermittent heavy rain and persistent strong waves making search operations particularly hazardous.

 

The missing fisherman has not been found before night fall. Rescue operations through continued into the night when weather permitted. Authorities urge caution to all seafarers in the region as the rainy season continues to bring dangerous maritime conditions.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-24