Phuket's authorities are preparing for the rainy season, which may bring floods and landslides. At a meeting in the provincial administration on October 16, officials discussed measures to prevent the consequences of bad weather. As the local newspaper The Phuket News reports, the island has identified 66 areas most vulnerable to flooding during heavy downpours.
Most of these sites, 37, are in Mueang district, another 17 in Thalang and 12 in Kathu. Meteorological stations are used to monitor the weather. According to the action plan, rescuers and equipment will be dispatched immediately to any area where rainfall exceeds 60 millimeters per hour, or where continuous rain reaches 100 millimeters.
Seventy temporary shelters have been prepared for residents and travelers. The authorities have stockpiled more than eight thousand sandbags and pumps for drawing off water, which have been placed at the most vulnerable points on the island. In addition, at 75 locations, including the Kamala and Patong areas, canals and drainage systems have been cleared so that water does not stagnate on the roads.
Warnings of danger will be broadcast through 19 special towers, loudspeakers and social media. Authorities urge people to follow official warnings and remain vigilant.
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