Phuket braces for drought: Officials scramble to secure water
As Phuket enters the dry season, officials are stepping up efforts to prevent a potential drought, holding an emergency meeting to strategise water management and mitigation measures.
The Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket) convened its first working group meeting of the year yesterday, February 17, led by Chief Sopon Thongsai.
The session brought together multiple agencies to assess the island’s water situation and outline response plans.
While February typically sees minimal rainfall, officials noted that this year’s precipitation has been higher than last year, helping to maintain water reserves.
However, a prolonged dry spell expected in late April has raised concerns about shortages, especially with a booming population and rising tourist numbers increasing demand.
“All agencies must work closely together, monitor conditions continuously, and provide timely updates to ensure swift action if the situation worsens.”
Krirksak Leenanon, Director of the Phuket branch of the Royal Irrigation Department (RID), reassured the public that Phuket’s three main reservoirs have enough water to last until the end of the dry season.
According to the Office of National Water Resources, current reservoir levels stand at 63% for Bang Neow Dum (Srisoonthorn), 51% for Bang Wad (Kathu), and 66% for Klong Kata (Chalong), reported The Phuket News.
Despite these reserves, officials remain cautious, coordinating with relevant sectors to safeguard Phuket’s water resources and ensure residents, businesses, and tourists have adequate supply.
In similar news, Nakhon Ratchasima faced a severe water crisis as reservoir levels dropped alarmingly low, raising concerns about shortages during the 2025 dry season. The provincial governor has urged residents to conserve water and may consider suspending off-season rice farming.
At a meeting on October 30 last year, at the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Hall, Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum and key officials discussed the province’s critical water situation.
Reports highlighted the declining levels of major reservoirs, including Lam Takhong, which currently holds just 103.9 million cubic metres—only 33.05% of its total capacity, marking a 28% drop from last year.
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