Phuket hit by Tsunami Disaster

An unexpected tidal wave, a tsunami, travelling several hundred kilometres an hour, hit the popular beach resort of Phuket in Southern Thailand Sunday morning. Reports are still very unclear as to the number of casualties and deaths, but widespread destruction is reported along Patong, Karon, Kata and other beach areas on the west coast of Thailand. The most affected area in Thailand is Phang Nga province where areas like Khao Lak and Phi Phi have been completely devastated resulting in the loss of many lives. Pictures of Khao Lak being beamed across the world are incomprehensible, resembling nothing we recognise of the booming new resort destination that Khao Lak once was. It is a tragedy beyond belief.

The Tsunami, or tidal waves, were caused by what is being reported as the largest earthquake in forty years and the fifth largest since 1900. The massive 8.9 level earthquake took place underwater in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Indonesia, and has caused devastation not just in Phuket but across Asia. Unfortunately with all the advanced technology we have today, scientists are still unable to predict earthquakes, meaning many woke up in paradise only to greet the nightmare of a wall of water.

A number has been opened in Thailand for information and names of those injured or worse. The number is (66) 21672. 

The Tourism Authority of Thailand in Phuket can be called on (66) 76 211036 or 212 213.

The area code for Phuket is 76 so if you are calling from overseas you would need to dial your International dialing code then 66 for Thailand then 76 for Phuket.

As many of these numbers will be very busy and there may well be a language barrier on some, we do advise you call your local Thai Embassy or Foreign Affairs office to see if they can help or answer any questions you may have.

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