Firefighters battle wildfire at Laem Krathing, Phuket
Firefighters in Phuket are continuing efforts to control a wildfire that erupted at Laem Krathing in Rawai late last night, February 20, impacting approximately five rai of land. The blaze, which began at 8.20pm, rapidly spread over 500 metres of hillside terrain, challenging firefighting teams due to the difficult location.
Emergency responders faced hurdles as fire trucks and large machinery could not access the area. Firefighters resorted to battling the blaze on foot, using fire batons and creating firebreaks to contain the flames.
Despite these challenges, firefighters have managed to bring the fire partially under control and are maintaining 24-hour surveillance to prevent further outbreaks.
Phuket Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri directed the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket) to collaborate with the Phuket Forest Fire Control Station and the Third Naval Area Command. Their coordinated efforts aim to contain the fire and safeguard tourist areas nearby.
Initial reports confirm that no tourists or residents were stranded or harmed in the affected area. Ronnarong, alongside DDPM Phuket Chief Sopon Thongsai, continues to oversee operations on-site, ensuring safety measures are enforced.
As of 7am today, high humidity and favourable winds have helped slow the fire’s spread, preventing it from reaching populated areas. Firefighting teams are actively reinforcing firebreaks, spraying water, and deploying air blowers to keep the flames under control.
Firefighters have assessed that the wildfire remains at a safe distance from nearby hotels, eliminating the need for evacuations at this time. However, hotel management has been advised to stay vigilant and prepare evacuation plans should conditions worsen, reported The Phuket News.
In other news, Phuket’s waste crisis is escalating as the island’s only public incinerator shuts down for a month-long renovation, forcing local government officials to dump hundreds of tonnes of excess waste into overflowing landfills.
Deputy Mayor Suphot La-ongphet visited the Phuket Solid Waste Disposal Centre at Saphan Hin on Monday, February 17 to discuss emergency waste management measures with municipal engineers and PJT Technology Co Ltd, the company responsible for operating the incinerator.
Latest Thailand News
