Karon orders urgent evacuation as landslide risk jumps after heavy rain
Karon has moved into emergency evacuation mode after heavy rain sharply increased the risk of landslides and mudflows on the hillsides.
On 29 October at 12:17 p.m., authorities raised the warning to the highest level and ordered residents in the most dangerous zones along Soi Patak 2, Soi Patak 4 and Soi Patak 6 to leave at once. For people in those areas, the instruction is simple: do not wait, take only essentials, and move to safe locations now.
Where evacuees can go
Two temporary shelters have been prepared for the area — Ban Kata School (Tritot Upatham) and Wat Suwannakhiri Khet, better known locally as Wat Karon. Staff and volunteers are on site to help with shelter and basic coordination. Officials are also asking residents to flag elderly people, children, people with limited mobility and anyone unable to leave on their own.
What to do today
- take documents, medication and basic supplies;
- stay away from hillsides and waterways;
- do not return home until officials say it is safe;
- keep following local announcements and municipality updates.
Local services say water is still pooling after prolonged rain, which raises the danger of ground movement on steep slopes. In this kind of weather, even a short downpour can change the situation within minutes.
Why it matters now
For residents, the key issue is route and timing: if you live on or near a slope, it is safer to leave early than to wait until rain eases. For visitors, it is a reminder to check access if your hotel, home or rental sits above the main road or close to steep ground.
Karon is now operating on a safety-first schedule. If you are in a risk zone, follow the evacuation instructions right away rather than waiting for a second alert.
