Travel Alerts🇹🇭 Thailand

Thailand water shortages trigger nighttime pressure cuts in Phuket through July

Brandon Richards
Brandon Richards ·
Verified · 8 sources· Updated May 14, 2026
Thailand water shortages trigger nighttime pressure cuts in Phuket through July

Thailand’s Phuket water shortages and flood risk hit nomads through July

Water pressure cuts are already in place

Phuket is dealing with a dual water crisis as low reservoir levels collide with flash-flood risk and the pressure cuts are already scheduled in parts of the island. The Provincial Waterworks Authority Phuket Branch said Bang Wad reservoir is at 27%, while Bang Neow Dum is at 41% and Klong Kata is at 42%.

Nighttime pressure reductions run from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. through May 15, with officials warning that some areas could see low flow or no water during those hours. PWA said no full outages are planned, but the shortage may continue through July.

Nomads, expats and hotel guests are in the path

The pressure cuts can affect long-stay visitors in Phuket Town, Kathu, Patong and several hotel zones, including Le Meridien and Centara areas. Low-lying and canal-adjacent neighborhoods also face drainage problems if heavy rain hits.

Flash-flood alerts are most active in mid-May as Phuket shifts into the rainy season. The Thai Meteorological Department has tied the drought and flood risk to El Niño conditions, with dry effects expected to linger for months.

Keep water stored and watch local alerts

PWA is urging residents and visitors to conserve water, check for leaks and store supplies in containers. Phuket officials have also ordered drainage work and long-term water planning, while local agencies continue clearing canals and preparing pumps.

Nomads with long stays should check building notices and local alerts before the nightly pressure window. For updates, contact PWA Phuket at 076-319173 or 064-4252310 and follow visa updates plus the Thailand guide for the wider picture.

Frequently asked questions

What areas of Phuket are affected by the water pressure cuts?
Phuket Town, Kathu, Patong and several hotel zones are affected, including Le Meridien and Centara areas. Low-lying and canal-adjacent neighborhoods may also face drainage problems if heavy rain hits.
What are the nighttime water pressure cut hours in Phuket?
The nighttime pressure reductions run from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. through May 15. Officials say some areas could see low flow or no water during those hours.
How long could the Phuket water shortage last?
The shortage may continue through July. The Provincial Waterworks Authority says no full outages are planned, but pressure cuts are already in place.
Why is Phuket facing both drought and flood risk?
The Thai Meteorological Department has linked the conditions to El Niño. Dry effects are expected to linger for months, while flash-flood alerts are most active in mid-May as Phuket enters the rainy season.
What should long-stay visitors in Phuket do during the water shortage?
They should conserve water, check for leaks and store supplies in containers. Visitors should also check building notices and local alerts before the nightly pressure window.
Who can travelers contact for Phuket water updates?
Travelers can contact PWA Phuket at 076-319173 or 064-4252310. Those numbers are listed for updates on the situation.

Stay updated on Thailand

Visa changes, travel alerts, and destination news — delivered when they actually matter.

Related Updates