Flash Floods Hit Khao Sok in Surat Thani; Tourists and Locals Evacuated

Continuous heavy rainfall in Phanom district, Surat Thani, triggered rapid flash flooding in the Khao Sok area on September 19th. Rising waters in the Sok Canal surged quickly, inundating riverside resorts and residential zones and prompting urgent evacuations of tourists and residents. Local officials reported that water levels rose rapidly, submerging many resort facilities and rendering some roads impassable. Evacuated individuals were moved to safe higher ground and temporary shelters. Authorities continue to issue warnings and are working to assess the damage and commence recovery efforts. Khao Sok National Park is a popular destination known for its lush rainforests and striking limestone karsts, attracting numerous tourists from both domestic and international markets. The current flooding raises concerns about its potential impact on the peak tourist season. Thailand frequently experiences such localized floods during its rainy season, highlighting ongoing challenges in infrastructure development and the enhancement of early warning systems.