Tragic Landslide in Phuket Claims 10 Lives Amid Heavy Rainfall
PUBLISHED : 23 Aug 2024 at 20:35
PHUKET – A devastating landslide triggered by torrential rain has resulted in the death of at least 10 individuals in Phuket, with eight of the victims being foreign nationals. The heavy rainfall, which began early on Friday, has also caused significant damage to over 50 homes across the region.
Authorities reported that intense downpours affected several areas of the island, leading to flash floods and landslides, particularly in tambons Chalong and Karon within Muang district, displacing approximately 250 households.
The most severe incident occurred on Soi Patak 2 in Karon, where multiple structures, including a villa and a migrant workers’ campsite, were buried by the landslide. According to officials, the confirmed fatalities include a Russian couple, six Myanmar workers, and two Thais.
In total, around 50 homes sustained damage, with some crushed under large rocks and fallen trees. About a dozen individuals were reported injured at the scene.
Phuket’s deputy governor announced the establishment of an emergency command center and an evacuation site near Wat Kata, with five families comprising 25 individuals already evacuated from the area.
Rescue operations are ongoing as teams search four additional locations where individuals may be trapped beneath the debris. Although light rain persisted throughout Friday evening, flooding in residential areas has mostly subsided, officials indicated. However, several villages, including those in Karon, Rawai, and Chalong, have been declared disaster zones.
In light of the ongoing weather challenges, officials stressed the vital need for accurate information regarding weather conditions and areas at risk for tourists. Visitors are being urged to steer clear of high-risk zones during the heavy rainfall.
