BANGKOK, Oct 2 — As heavier rainfall looms over southern Thailand in the coming days, authorities are stepping up preparations and readying personnel, machinery, and emergency resources for immediate deployment.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who is also the Commander of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command, said rainfall in the South was expected to increase as the weather system moved into the region.
“Authorities should use weather forecasts to identify areas at risk of flash floods, forest run-off and landslides, and ensure that personnel, disaster-response machinery, and resources are ready for immediate deployment,” he said after chairing the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command meeting today.
Yesterday, the Thai Meteorological Department issued a nationwide weather advisory, warning of heavy rain between October 5 and October 10 that could trigger flash floods and landslides in the North and South.
Anutin, who is also Interior Minister, said provincial governors must lead in managing the situation in their respective areas, with a clear understanding of risk areas, public needs, and resource limitations.
“If a situation exceeds their capacity, they must immediately seek support from the central authorities or neighbouring areas,” he said.
The Prime Minister also instructed the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department to coordinate with provincial authorities, regional disaster prevention and mitigation centres, and relevant agencies to monitor the situation around the clock.
It was also ordered to ensure personnel, pumps, boats, and other emergency equipment were ready, while drawing up plans to deploy additional resources and disaster-response machinery to the South.
Anutin emphasised the need for provinces to prepare evacuation centres and warning systems, and ensure adequate food, drinking water, sanitation, bedding, and healthcare for evacuees, particularly vulnerable groups.
“The government’s response must cover all stages of a disaster, from preparedness and early warning to evacuation, relief, rehabilitation and compensation,” he said.
Southern Thailand is a major destination for Malaysian tourists, with more than 3.5 million Malaysian visitors recorded in Thailand in 2024.
The region was badly affected by severe flooding in November 2025, which reportedly claimed more than 145 lives and affected about 3.54 million people.
