PHUKET — On 16 May 2026, authorities reported that rescue teams are actively searching for a man who is feared to have been swept away by powerful waves at Nai Thon Beach.
The incident took place around 18:30 on 15 May in the Thalang district during challenging monsoon weather, with wave heights exceeding 2 metres.
According to officials, lifeguards attempted to reach the man but were thwarted by the strong currents and heavy surf. The search was momentarily halted at 19:00 and resumed the following morning.
Teams comprised of local officials, police, lifeguards, and personnel from rescue foundations established a command centre at the beach for coordinated efforts.
Severe weather conditions persisted on 16 May, making it impossible for boats to conduct offshore searches. Instead, rescue workers concentrated their efforts on rocky areas and the nearby shoreline.
An 18-year-old lifeguard, who witnessed the event, reported seeing a man struggling in the water while clearing tourists from the beach shortly before sunset. He stated that he rushed to fetch rescue fins, but the man vanished before he could return, seemingly pulled away by strong currents in a zone notorious for rip tides.
Officials suspect that the missing individual is a Thai man in his 20s who had come to the beach alone. Authorities also noted that red warning flags were displayed along the beach all day, prohibiting swimming due to the hazardous conditions.
Additionally, police found a silver Toyota Camry with Chiang Rai licence plates parked near the beach, which they believe may belong to the missing man. The vehicle has been taken to Sakhu police station as efforts continue to identify and reach out to relatives.
Source: Khaosod English
