Phuket is facing a resource management paradox that highlights the island’s infrastructure strain. Provincial waterworks officials have scheduled overnight water pressure reductions across large parts of Phuket between May 11 and May 15 due to drought conditions and dwindling reservoir levels. At the same time, disaster prevention agencies are preparing for potential floods and landslides forecast for May 15-20.
The situation is a reminder that Phuket’s appeal as a year-round destination depends on systems that remain vulnerable to seasonal extremes.
Why the water cuts are happening
The Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) Phuket Branch announced that water pressure will be reduced nightly from 10pm to 5am during the restriction period. The measures are necessary because raw water reserves at Bang Wad Reservoir, which feeds the Bang Wad Water Treatment Plant, have dropped to 27% capacity.
Drought conditions, a prolonged dry spell and extremely hot weather have caused water supplies to continuously decrease, according to the PWA. Bang Neow Dum reservoir in Srisoonthorn stands at 41% full, while Klong Kata reservoir in Chalong is at 42%.
The authority warned that some areas may experience very low water pressure or no running water at all during the affected hours.
Areas listed as affected include parts of Phuket Town such as Sri Suchat Village, Pruksa Ville Village, Khao Khad, Laem Panwa, and hotel zones including Le Meridien and Centara properties. In Kathu District, affected areas include Hopeland Village, Bang Thong Soi and the whole of Patong.
Flood preparation begins for mid-May
On May 8, Deputy Phuket Governor Teeraphong Chuaychoo chaired a meeting of the provincial working group responsible for monitoring and responding to floods, storms and landslides during the 2026 rainy season. The meeting brought together officials from the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, district offices and local administrative organisations.
Mr Teeraphong said the Meteorological Department had forecast that May would mark the transition into the rainy season, with heavy rainfall expected to intensify during the second half of the month. He warned that May 15-20 carried an increased risk of flash floods, runoff, overflowing waterways and landslides in some areas.
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn has instructed all relevant agencies to improve drainage efficiency and increase water storage capacity ahead of the expected weather conditions.
Urgent measures include dredging canals and drainage pipes, removing silt and debris, and clearing weeds and rubbish blocking waterways. Agencies were also instructed to inspect and maintain emergency equipment and ensure sufficient water pumps are available for flood response operations.
What this means for Phuket property and residents
The dual challenge of drought and flood preparation underscores the infrastructure pressures that affect Phuket property, particularly in areas dependent on centralised water supply and drainage systems.
For villa owners, property managers and landlords, the water cuts may require communication with tenants and guests, especially in Patong and affected Phuket Town zones. The PWA urged residents and businesses to conserve water, prepare sufficient storage containers and inspect plumbing systems for leaks to minimise water loss during the restriction period.
For buyers and long-term investors, the situation highlights the importance of understanding water infrastructure resilience in areas being considered for purchase. Properties with backup water storage, private wells or rainwater collection systems may be less vulnerable to seasonal supply stress.
The flood preparation also affects property in low-lying areas, particularly those near canals, drainage channels or hillside zones identified as vulnerable to landslides. The provincial government’s focus on dredging and drainage maintenance is intended to reduce flood risk, but buyers should understand which areas are considered high-risk by disaster prevention agencies.
The long-term planning challenge
Deputy Governor Teeraphong said that in addition to immediate disaster prevention efforts, Phuket must plan long-term water storage management to secure supplies for future dry seasons. “Planning must be done two to three years in advance,” he said.
The comment points to a structural issue: Phuket’s population, tourism demand and property development have grown faster than water storage and distribution capacity. The island’s ability to manage seasonal extremes will affect property confidence, rental continuity and infrastructure investment over the coming years.
Residents seeking more information may contact the PWA Phuket Branch office at 076-319173 or 064-4252310. The PWA said updates on the raw water situation would continue to be issued as conditions develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which areas of Phuket are affected by water pressure cuts?
Affected areas include parts of Phuket Town such as Sri Suchat Village, Pruksa Ville Village, Khao Khad, Laem Panwa and hotel zones near Le Meridien and Centara properties. In Kathu District, Hopeland Village, Bang Thong Soi and the whole of Patong are affected. The cuts run nightly from 10pm to 5am between May 11 and May 15.
Why is Phuket facing water cuts despite recent thundershowers?
Despite recent rain, Bang Wad Reservoir, which feeds the main water treatment plant, is only 27% full due to prolonged drought, a long dry spell and extremely hot weather. Other reservoirs are similarly low, with Bang Neow Dum at 41% and Klong Kata at 42%. Short-term rainfall has not been enough to replenish reserves.
When are floods expected in Phuket?
The Meteorological Department has forecast that heavy rainfall will intensify during the second half of May, with May 15-20 identified as carrying an increased risk of flash floods, runoff and landslides. Provincial officials are preparing drainage systems and emergency equipment ahead of the forecast period.
What should Phuket property owners do during the water cuts?
The PWA has urged residents and businesses to conserve water, prepare sufficient water storage containers and inspect plumbing systems for leaks to minimise water loss. Property managers should communicate with tenants and guests about the scheduled pressure reductions.
Does this affect Phuket property investment outlook?
The water cuts and flood preparation highlight infrastructure pressures that affect Phuket property, particularly in areas dependent on centralised water supply and drainage systems. Buyers should consider water infrastructure resilience, backup storage capacity and flood risk when evaluating locations. Long-term planning capacity will influence property confidence over time.
Sources
- The Phuket News — Phuket officials warn of water shortages, floods — link
