Massive Fire Sweeps Through Phuket Worker Camp, Forcing Hundreds to Evacuate

A large fire broke out at a workers’ camp in Phuket’s Thalang district shortly after midnight, triggering a large-scale emergency response and forcing hundreds of residents to flee their homes.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:15 a.m. at a camp located opposite the Ban Bang Jo water production facility in Sri Sunthorn. The site, which spans more than one rai and consists of densely packed dormitory-style accommodations enclosed by corrugated metal fencing, housed over 500 workers.

Firefighters arriving at the scene encountered intense flames rapidly spreading through the camp. Thick black smoke rose above the area, while several loud explosions were reported during the blaze. Residents rushed to escape and salvage their belongings as the fire swept through the complex, creating chaotic scenes throughout the night.

Emergency crews from Sri Sunthorn Municipality, Cherng Talay Municipality, and the Cherng Talay Subdistrict Administrative Organization responded to the incident. More than 10 fire engines and seven water tankers were deployed, with teams working from multiple positions to stop the fire from reaching nearby residential neighborhoods.

After more than an hour of firefighting operations, authorities succeeded in bringing the blaze under control and preventing further spread.

Police believe the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, although a full investigation is still underway. Forensic specialists have been assigned to examine the scene and determine the exact cause of the incident.

Officials are currently evaluating the extent of the damage and calculating the financial losses resulting from the fire.