Authorities in Thailand have advised residents and tourists to postpone non-essential journeys on Koh Samui after persistent rain caused flooding on the popular Surat Thani island on 12 November.
Koh Samui Police Station reported water covering the road outside Koh Samui City Municipality’s offices at 8.28am. Small cars could still pass, but police urged travellers to follow local alerts and avoid unnecessary journeys. The municipality activated its emergency plan, closed the sluice gate on Chaweng Canal to prevent seawater flowing back into low-lying areas, and operated large pumps at full capacity to discharge water into the sea.
Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation separately issued a mobile flood alert for Koh Samui, warning of flash floods, forest run-off, standing water and landslides. High tides were identified as an additional risk, particularly in low-lying areas and on foothill slopes.
The Thai Meteorological Department’s No. 8 advisory, issued on 12 November, forecasts isolated heavy to very heavy rain in southern Thailand through 13 November. It warns that accumulated rain could trigger flash floods, overflows and landslides, particularly along waterways near foothills and lowlands. Waves in the lower Gulf are expected to reach two to three metres and exceed three metres in thunderstorms; small boats have been advised to remain ashore.
The combination of flooded roads, high tides and rough seas could lead to short-notice changes to boat transfers, excursions, beach activities and road-based tours. Clients already on the island should follow police, municipal and hotel guidance, while those due to travel should confirm conditions with accommodation and transport providers before departure.
