Phuket DDPM warns of heavy rains, flash floods and landslides

PHUKET: The Office of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued a five day weather warning for Phuket starting today.

“As there will be heavy rains, as well as the possibility of flash floods and landslides, for the next five days, everyone needs to be very careful,” said Santhawat Riwleung, chief of the DDPM Phuket Office.

“I have already forwarded the warning letter to all related municipalities and officials in order for them to clear construction debris and anything that can block water from draining.”

Local authorities have also been notified to put up road signs in areas that are prone to flooding and landslides.

“Please drive carefully and wear your seat belt or helmet. If the rain is too heavy, please pull over until driving conditions have improved,” Mr Santhawat said.

Wind and heavy rain damaged utility poles near Sapam Temple on Monday (story here), as well as flooded the Patong Police Station (story here).

— Kongleaphy Keam