20 Oct 2022 | 05:07 AM UTC
Thailand: Further adverse weather forecast in southern regions through at least Oct. 25 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across southern Thailand through Oct. 25. Disruptions due to flooding ongoing.
Event
Further adverse weather is forecast across parts of southern Thailand through at least Oct. 25. Heavy rain since late Oct. 15 has resulted in flooding in parts of Phuket Province. Authorities have declared disaster zones for Kathu, Muang, and Thalang districts. Floods and landslides caused disruptions to multiple roads in Phuket town, including primary roads. The Kathu-Patong Road is closed following damage due to floods and landslides; authorities estimate that it could take at least seven days after the rain ceases to temporarily repair the road. Authorities have advised travelers heading for Phuket International Airport (HKT) to leave several hours in advance. Authorities have constructed a temporary crossing over the Bang Niew Canal following damage to the bridge. Landslides damaged power poles in Tambon Kamala, Kathu District, cutting off power to the area. Nakhon Phuket Municipality has opened four shelters for flood victims. Authorities have warned residents along the Bang Yai Canal, in Nakhon Phuket and Ratsada sub-districts to take precautions due to the risk of flooding due to rising river levels.
As of Oct. 20, the Thai Meteorological Department has forecast continuous heavy to very heavy rainfall in the south through at least Oct. 25. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. Further rainfall is likely to exacerbate the current situation and hamper recovery and relief efforts.
Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
