Phuket or leave it: Flooded roads sink travel plans to island airport

Flooding across Phuket is wreaking havoc on travellers bound for the island’s international airport, as waterlogged roads spark major disruptions. Local officials are urging passengers to rethink their travel plans, advising them to allow an extra three to four hours to reach the airport in these treacherous conditions.

Phuket International Airport officials issued a public warning, strongly recommending the additional travel time to ensure no one misses their flight amid the weather-induced chaos. They also urged passengers to keep a close eye on the latest updates regarding the impact of the floods on flight schedules. So far, no flights have been delayed or cancelled due to the downpour.

Heavy overnight rain has left much of the island underwater, with the Thalang district, home to the key roads leading to the airport, bearing the brunt of the flooding. The situation forced local government officials to roll out warnings for both residents and tourists alike.

And it’s not over yet. The Thai Meteorological Department forecasted relentless rain throughout the week in Phuket and other provinces along the Andaman coast, warning of more heavy downpours to come.

“It is crucial for all passengers to monitor weather updates and plan their trips accordingly.”

Flooding has become an increasingly common issue in Phuket during the rainy season, impacting both locals and tourists alike. The current weather pattern is not unusual for this time of year but the intensity of the overnight downpours has been particularly troublesome.

Phuket officials are working to manage the floodwaters and ensure that main roads remain passable. However, with more rain expected, the situation remains fluid, and further disruptions are possible.

Travellers are advised to keep checking for updates on their flight status and road conditions. The airport’s recommendation to allow extra time for travel is a precautionary measure to help passengers navigate the unpredictable circumstances.

Emergency services and local government agencies are on high alert to provide assistance where needed and to mitigate the impact of the flooding on daily life and travel.