Southern Airports Ordered to Prepare for Heavy Rain, Flooding
The Transport Ministry has directed airports across 10 southern provinces to activate flood preparedness plans as the Meteorological Department warns of torrential rain and potential flash floods, landslides, and forest runoff from October 23 to 26. Airports must monitor conditions 24/7, inspect critical infrastructure, coordinate with emergency agencies, and be ready to restrict or halt operations if safety is compromised.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploythale Lakkhammaengsjan revealed that the Meteorological Department forecasts continuous heavy rain in 10 southern provinces — Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Satun, Yala, and Narathiwat — from October 23 to 26, 2026, with warnings of flash floods, forest runoff, and landslides. The Ministry of Transport has ordered all airports in the region to ready emergency plans, monitor water levels and rainfall around the clock, inspect drainage systems, pumps, backup power, runways, taxiways, and aprons, and coordinate with air traffic control, electricity authorities, disaster agencies, and airlines. If any area becomes unsafe for flight operations, restrictions or suspensions will be imposed, with continuous alerts to pilots, flight managers, and passengers. Airports are also to review emergency and contingency plans, prioritizing passenger and user safety.
