Thailand: Authorities responding to heavy rainfall, flooding in Phuket June 30

Authorities are responding to heavy rainfall and associated flooding across Phuket June 30. Inundated roads and property damage have been reported in affected areas. Flight disruptions occurred at Phuket International Airport (HKT) the morning of June 30.

Further heavy downpours could hamper recovery efforts and exacerbate the situation in areas where the ground is already saturated by previous floodwaters.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further 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 heavy rain has saturated the soil.

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.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces will probably cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather will probably trigger further flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding will likely block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with 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.