Prolonged and exceptionally heavy rainfall across southern Thailand has significantly jeopardized preparations for the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, which are scheduled to commence in December 2025. Several key venues earmarked for the multi-sport event have been severely impacted by what local reports describe as the worst flooding experienced in Thailand in 300 years.
The province of Songkhla, one of the primary host locations for the 2025 Games, has seen many of its sports facilities inundated. The Tinsulanon Stadium, designated as the main venue for football competitions, is currently under severe submersion. Reports indicate that the stadium and its surrounding areas are completely flooded, a situation likely compelling Thai organizers to prioritize urgent repairs and extensive logistical preparations well in advance of the Games’ opening on December 9, 2025.
Other crucial venues have also sustained significant damage. The boxing facility, along with other key submerged areas designated for the Games, is deeply affected. This widespread flooding is creating substantial difficulties for the relocation of security checkpoints and the meticulous preparation of essential materials needed for the event.
In response, local authorities and the Organizing Committee of the 33rd SEA Games are actively coordinating efforts to find immediate solutions. Their primary objective is to mitigate damage to sports equipment and infrastructure as much as possible. Organizers have swiftly initiated water pumping operations and are conducting thorough inspections of building structures, alongside comprehensive safety assessments at all flood-affected locations.
The organizing committee has confirmed that emergency plans are currently under discussion. These plans include potential venue changes or adjustments to the match schedule, all aimed at ensuring that the 33rd SEA Games can proceed successfully as planned. The Games are officially slated to open from December 9 to 20, 2025, across Bangkok, Chonburi, and Songkhla Provinces, featuring 50 sports and 574 events. Football and equestrian (Polo) competitions are scheduled to begin earlier, on December 3, 2025.
Following the main event, the ASEAN Para Games are set to take place from January 20 to 26, 2026, in Nakhon Ratchasima province.
