Phuket Landslide Death Toll Rises to 10 as Rescue Efforts Continue
A devastating landslide triggered by heavy monsoon rains on Thailand’s popular tourist island of Phuket has claimed the lives of 10 individuals, with three more still missing and 19 injured, according to officials. The disaster struck a residential area on Friday, prompting a massive response from rescue teams, military personnel, and volunteers.
The government has confirmed that the victims include a Russian couple, a Myanmar national, and several Thai citizens. Authorities are working to identify the remaining victims, with police officers sifting through the rubble and debris to piece together the events surrounding the tragedy.
The landslide has affected over 400 people from 200 households across three districts, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Footage shared on social media platforms shows the extent of the devastation, with homes reduced to rubble, muddy water flooding the streets, and volunteers struggling to clear the wreckage.
Thailand has been battered by heavy monsoon rains this week, with the southern coast and northern regions bearing the brunt of the downpour. The kingdom’s annual monsoon season often brings severe weather conditions, but experts warn that man-made climate change is exacerbating the situation, leading to more intense and destructive weather patterns.
In response to the disaster, the government has deployed rescuers, military personnel, and volunteers to deliver essential supplies to those affected and assist with clean-up efforts. Additional funds have been allocated to support the victims, and a special task force has been established to investigate the cause of the landslide.
The Phuket landslide is a grim reminder of the devastating impact of severe weather events in Thailand. In 2011, widespread flooding across the country resulted in over 500 deaths and millions of homes damaged or destroyed. As the kingdom continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, it is essential that authorities prioritize disaster preparedness and mitigation measures to minimize the risk of such tragedies occurring in the future.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the affected communities and providing aid to those in need. As the rescue efforts continue, the people of Phuket and the wider Thai community come together to mourn the loss of life and begin the long process of recovery and rebuilding.