Chlorine Tank Explosion at Phuket Waterworks Quickly Brought Under Control

Emergency crews swiftly contained a chlorine tank explosion at the Phuket Municipal Waterworks in Phuket Town on July 28, with officials confirming that the city’s water supply remains unaffected.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:15 p.m. at the municipal water treatment facility on Damrong Road. Provincial and local authorities immediately responded, including Phuket Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom, Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office chief Worath Surawadee, Muang Phuket District Chief Siwatch Rawangkul, and Phuket City Mayor Supachok Laongpetch, who visited the site to supervise emergency operations.

Police temporarily closed nearby roads while firefighters continuously sprayed water to suppress and disperse chlorine fumes. The emergency response successfully brought the situation under control within about one hour.

Officials also inspected nearby residential properties to determine whether the blast’s shockwave had caused any structural damage.

Governor Chotnarin instructed all relevant agencies to maintain close coordination, emphasizing that public safety and environmental protection remain the highest priorities. Authorities implemented measures to contain any chemical release and said air quality and surrounding conditions would continue to be monitored until the area is declared completely safe.

Mayor Supachok confirmed that the explosion originated from a chlorine storage tank used in the municipal water treatment process. He reassured residents that the incident had not affected Phuket’s water supply and urged the public to remain calm.

Although a chlorine odor was detected shortly after the explosion, officials stated that there is currently no health risk to the public. Residents have nevertheless been advised to avoid the immediate area until authorities complete all safety inspections.

The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation.