Officials in Phuket were on alert for potential flooding as a result of heavy rainfall, with steps being taken to mitigate the threat in high-risk areas.
The good news, there is no rain forecast for Wednesday at the moment
The provincial branch of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation launched an urgent operation covering several areas in the northern district of Thalang, in particular the sub-district of Srisoonthorn.
The Phuket News reports that Sophon Thongsai, head of DDPM Phuket, says heavy rainfall began at around 4am Monday, August 19, continuing for several hours. This led to severe water retention and flooding in several parts of Thalang, including the area of the provincial prison, Thung Na Khian Road, the road connecting Baan Yai and Bandon, and the area around Thalang Technical College (which are frequent flooding locations).
The affected communities are being assisted in the aftermath, with water pumps deployed to accelerate drainage efforts. Mud and debris is being cleared from the affected roads, to allow residents and tourists to make their journey safely. The water is gradually receding, but local authorities continue to monitor the situation.
Last weekend, several areas across the island were flooded, including Patong, Kathu, Kamala and Cherngtalay, on Saturday, August 17. In Patong, affected areas included Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road, Sai Nam Yen Road, Soi Nanai 6, Soi Prabaramee 2, and in front of the Paradise Complex.
Meanwhile, in Kathu, there was heavy flooding at the the Si Kor intersection and the entrance to Soi Kuan Yang, in front of the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation.
In the northern sub-district of Chergntalay, the road in front of Surin Plaza was flooded, as was Soi 8 in front of Home Pro, Soi Bangtao 7/2, and the road in front of the Blue Tree water park, which is frequently underwater during the monsoon rains.
Chalermphon Kerdsap, mayor of Srisoonthorn, says the recurring floods and poor drainage are the result of ongoing construction and development, which he says is obstructing the natural runoff of water.
SOURCE: The Phuket News
