BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has issued warnings for 16 provinces in central and southern Thailand to prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall from November 9 to 13, 2026, with risks of flash floods, runoff, landslides, and localized flooding. DDPM Director-General Nirat Pongsitthaworn, serving as Director of the Central Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command, stated that the warning follows the Thai Meteorological Department’s November 8 advisory on continued rainfall in southern Thailand.
The affected areas include two central provinces, Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan, and 14 southern provinces: Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. These weather conditions are linked to a strong high-pressure system from China, which is expected to strengthen easterly winds over Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand.
The Director-General has instructed provincial authorities and regional disaster prevention centers to closely monitor rainfall, water levels, and flood-prone areas. Emergency response teams, disaster relief equipment, and operational vehicles must remain ready for deployment at all times. Authorities have also been directed to accelerate drainage in areas experiencing flooding or repeated flood risks.
Natural tourist attractions, especially waterfalls and caves, may be temporarily closed if conditions become hazardous. Relevant agencies must also prepare temporary shelters, food, drinking water, and essential supplies in case evacuations are needed. The DDPM advises residents to monitor official warnings and prepare for possible emergencies. For assistance, contact the DDPM emergency hotline at 1784 or LINE ID @1784DDPM, available 24 hours a day. (NNT)
