Flash floods hit Thailand's Phuket after heavy rainfall

Flash floods inundated several areas of Thailand's southern island province of Phuket on Monday (26 October) following heavy overnight rainfall, affecting all three districts, including Phuket City, officials said.

Water levels began to recede by late morning, but some low-lying areas remained flooded, prompting authorities to advise drivers of small vehicles to avoid affected roads, provincial Deputy Governor Romdon Hayiawae said.

Some areas were also hit by mudslides, and officials were clearing debris to prevent it from entering canals and blocking waterways, he said.

Photos and videos shared on social media showed floodwaters flowing into residential neighbourhoods and submerging roads, leaving several routes impassable. Some vehicles were partially buried under mud and rocks carried by the floodwaters.

Around 100 households were affected, but no casualties had been reported, Romdon said.

The Thai Meteorological Department warned that heavy and persistent rainfall could continue across the southern region until Wednesday, raising the risk of further flash floods and landslides.

Flooding has affected several parts of Thailand since mid-September, killing at least 83 people as of Monday, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.

Bangkok was also inundated in late September after days of torrential rain, forcing thousands of people to evacuate and disrupting daily activities.