Southern Thailand Floods: Essential Information for Travellers
Written by the editors of theo-courant.com, your reference guide to Thailand and South-East Asia - based in Bangkok, at the heart of Thai culture.
Southern Thailand is currently experiencing severe flooding. This guide explains the impacts on transport, airports, and travel plans, with practical advice for tourists heading to Phuket, Krabi and the Andaman coast.
Over the past several days, southern provinces have faced exceptional rainfall, causing major disruptions. While most tourist areas remain accessible, inland provinces and transport networks are under pressure.
Current Situation in Southern Thailand
Floods are affecting 10 provinces: Surat Thani, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Phatthalung, Satun, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat.
More than 720,000 households are impacted, with some areas still under critical alert.
Hat Yai: The Hardest-Hit Area
Hat Yai is facing its heaviest rainfall in 300 years, resulting in severe flooding, road closures and major logistical challenges.
Key impacts include:
- Entire neighbourhoods isolated
- Power outages
- Insufficient boats for evacuations
- Evacuations to university campuses
- Delays in delivering essential supplies
For tourists, this translates into blocked roads, long delays and significant transport disruptions.
Impact on Transport and Tourism
Major tourist zones such as Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta and the islands of the Andaman Sea remain operational.
However, connections from inland provinces may be affected.
Airports: What’s Working and What’s Disrupted
- Hat Yai Airport (HDY): The airport remains open, but over 1,000 travellers were stranded due to flooded access roads.
- Distribution of food and hygiene kits
- Military trucks ensuring transfers to hotels and shelters
- Phuket Airport (HKT): Operating normally.
- Krabi Airport (KBV): No major issues reported.
Tip: Avoid itineraries requiring connections through Hat Yai in the coming days.
Train Services
Rail services in parts of Songkhla, Trang and Phatthalung face temporary closures.
Routes toward Hat Yai Junction are experiencing the most disruptions.
Bus and Road Transport
- Many roads in Songkhla, Phatthalung and Nakhon Si Thammarat are flooded or cut off.
- Interprovincial buses to Yala, Narathiwat, Trang and Hat Yai may be cancelled or diverted.
- Roads to Phuket and Krabi remain open, though traffic is slower in certain sections.
Hotels and Tourism Services
- In Hat Yai, around 30 hotels requested emergency food supplies for guests.
- Accommodation in Phuket, Krabi and the main coastal destinations remains fully operational.
Can You Safely Travel to Phuket and Krabi?
Yes. Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Khao Lak and Phang Nga are not directly affected by the severe flooding.
However:
- Heavy showers are frequent
- Some excursions (rivers, waterfalls, jungle treks) may be cancelled
- Overland travel from Bangkok or central Thailand may take longer
Tip: Book a direct flight to Phuket or Krabi to avoid flood-affected areas.
Practical Tips for Travellers Heading South
1. Adjust Your Itinerary
- Use Phuket or Krabi as your main hub.
- Avoid Hat Yai, Na Mom, Rattaphum and other heavily affected districts for now.
2. Double-Check Transport
- Confirm bus and train tickets 24 hours before departure.
- Prepare alternatives such as flights or private transfers.
3. Expect Longer Travel Times
Some transfers may take two to three times longer depending on weather and road conditions.
4. Stay Updated
Keep an eye on:
- DDPM announcements
- Local airport updates
- Regional weather alerts
5. Pack for Heavy Rain
- Lightweight poncho
- Non-slip shoes
- Waterproof cases for documents and phone
- Offline maps and routes
FAQ – Southern Thailand Floods (Travellers)
Is it safe to travel to Phuket or Krabi right now?
Yes. Both destinations are operating normally, with only occasional heavy rain.
Are flights affected?
Flights to Hat Yai may be complicated due to impassable roads around the airport.
Phuket and Krabi airports are operating normally.
Should Hat Yai be avoided?
Yes, at least for now. Road access is difficult, and hotels are facing supply shortages.
Can I still take the train to the South?
Lines near Songkhla and Phatthalung are disrupted. Check official updates before travelling.
Are ferries to the islands affected?
Ferries are operating, but delays are possible in case of storms or heavy rainfall.
