Lifeguards Rescue Tourist After She Removes Warning Flag and Enters Rough Sea at Patong Beach

Thai lifeguards intervened to prevent a potentially dangerous accident on Patong Beach after a foreign tourist ignored safety warnings, removed a red warning flag, and entered rough seas during hazardous weather conditions.

The incident occurred on June 10 and was captured on video by a witness, Sarid Pongpawn, who later shared the footage on social media. In his post, he praised the lifeguards for their quick response and credited them with preventing a serious accident.

According to the video, lifeguards noticed a woman wearing a red T-shirt walking toward a rocky section of the shoreline. She then removed a red warning flag that had been placed to alert beachgoers about dangerous sea conditions.

Despite repeated warnings from lifeguards, the woman entered the water and climbed onto rocks near the shore. Strong winds and large waves were visible throughout the incident.

At one point, a powerful wave struck the woman from behind and nearly swept her off the rocks. Lifeguards continued to monitor the situation closely and eventually convinced her to leave the area before escorting her back to safety.

Following the rescue, officers from Patong Police Station were called to assist.

Local media later reported that the same woman was allegedly involved in additional disturbances along the beach road later that evening. Witnesses claimed she removed her clothes and walked naked in a public area while behaving erratically.

A 25-year-old massage therapist also alleged that the woman physically attacked her. According to the worker, she defended herself during the confrontation.

Police reportedly searched the tourist's belongings and discovered a package containing cannabis. Officers told local media they suspected her unusual behavior could have been linked to cannabis use, although no official medical examination or toxicology report has been released.

Authorities later located the woman's younger sister at a nearby salon. Police said the sister confirmed she was capable of looking after her sibling.

According to media reports, the massage therapist decided not to pursue legal action. As no formal complaint was filed, police allowed the two women to return to their accommodation.

The incident comes amid ongoing warnings from authorities about dangerous sea conditions along Phuket's west coast during the monsoon season. Lifeguards continue to urge visitors to respect red warning flags and avoid entering the water when beaches are closed due to strong waves and rip currents.