Persistent rain caused runoff that washed big rocks and mud into communities and tourist venues in this southern island province on Monday morning.
As much as 142.8 millimetres of rain pounded Phuket over 24 hours, generating runoff that tore into communities and attractions in tambon Patong of Kathu district. Damaged areas included Na Nai Nai 5 and 8 roads. Shopfront windows were shattered and many vehicles inundated.
Patong municipality quickly opened shelters for affected householders at its office, Wat Suwankeereewong School and Patong Bay Hill hotel, as work crews laboured to clear away the rocks, mud and accumulating garbage.
The torrential rain also caused flash floods in parts of Muang and Thalang districts.
Phuket was one of several southern provinces hit by flooding as of Monday morning. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said floods were also reported in Palian district of Trang; Tha Phae, Manang and Thung Wa districts of Satun; and Chawang and Thung Song districts of Nakhon Si Thammarat.
The Meteorological Department forecast is for heavy rain continuing in the South into Wednesday as the monsoon trough strengthens over the South.
From Thursday to Saturday rainfall is expected to ease off in the South, with the exception of its eastern coast, affected by easterly winds.
Phuket flooding picture gallery: