Phuket forest fire sparks panic before firefighters contain blaze
A raging forest fire in Thepkrasattri subdistrict, Phuket, sent firefighters and locals scrambling to contain the fast-spreading blaze yesterday, February 13. The fire engulfed over 6 rai of land in Khao Kluay, Baan Pak Pli, before emergency crews managed to bring it under control after a tense four-hour battle.
The Thepkrasattri Subdistrict Administration Organisation (OrBorTor) first reported the incident, which began as a grass fire before rapidly spreading due to dry conditions.
The difficult terrain blocked water trucks from accessing the area, forcing crews to tackle the flames using alternative suppression methods.
Thepkrasattri OrBorTor Chief Sitthichai Chantawat coordinated a multi-agency response, with assistance from Thalang district officials, DDPM Phuket, the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command, and the Phuket Forest Fire Control Station.
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat ordered an aerial survey to assess the fire’s spread, while Srisoonthorn Municipality deployed drones to monitor the situation.
After an intense operation, firefighters successfully extinguished the blaze, with no injuries or fatalities reported.
Local officials continue to monitor the affected area while investigating the cause of the fire to prevent future outbreaks, reported The Phuket News.
In similar news, firefighters successfully contained a forest fire near Pattaya after it threatened nearby homes.
The blaze broke out at Soi Boon Samphan 14 in Nong Prue on Sunday, February 9. At 3.06pm, the Nong Prue Municipality’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation team, along with the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre, was alerted to the fire and immediately dispatched emergency crews to the scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters found the flames spreading rapidly. Several fire trucks were deployed to spray water, effectively stopping the fire from reaching residential areas.
Although the fire was brought under control, thick smoke lingered in the area, prompting authorities to temporarily evacuate residents as a precaution. Officials continue to monitor the site to ensure no further flare-ups.
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