BANGKOK. A devastating mudslide on Thailand’s popular resort island of Phuket has claimed the lives of 13 people, including a Russian couple, local authorities confirmed on Sunday. The search for missing persons has been called off.
The mudslide, triggered by heavy rains last week, occurred near the Big Buddha, a well-known tourist attraction in southern Phuket. According to Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, the victims include nine migrant workers from Myanmar and two Thai nationals, alongside the Russian tourists.
In addition to the fatalities, around 20 people sustained injuries, and the disaster affected 209 households in the area. A significant cleanup operation is currently underway, with authorities working to restore the affected areas.
Governor Sophon stated that efforts are being made to contact the victims’ families and the respective embassies to assist with the necessary arrangements.
The incident has raised concerns about the impact of severe weather on the region, especially in areas frequented by tourists. The Big Buddha site remains closed as cleanup operations continue, and local officials have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution during the ongoing rainy season.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
