Prolonged periods of heavy rainfall have led to extensive flooding across parts of Southern Thailand, raising significant concerns for the timely preparation of venues designated to host the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games next month.
Reports indicate that numerous sports fields in Songkhla city, within Songkhla province, have sustained severe damage due to the floodwaters. Among the most critically affected is the Tinsulanon Stadium, which is slated to host the men’s football tournament. Visual evidence and on-site reports confirm that the stadium’s pitch and surrounding areas are submerged, casting doubt on the feasibility of prompt repairs and sufficient turf preparation ahead of the Games.
The impact of the flooding extends beyond Tinsulanon Stadium. Venues intended for Muay Thai and Pencak Silat, specifically the Phru Khang Khao Sports Center and the Chira Nakhon Sports Complex, have also experienced similar disruptions. Critical areas within both sports centers have been inundated, severely impeding the movement of essential equipment, logistical processes, security checks, and the overall layout and setup of the sites.
In response to the escalating situation, local authorities are working in close coordination with the 33rd SEA Games Organizing Committee. They are implementing urgent measures to mitigate the consequences of the floods. These efforts include the rapid pumping of water from affected areas, comprehensive inspections of building structures, and thorough safety assessments of each compromised stadium. Furthermore, discussions are actively underway to formulate contingency plans, which may involve considering alternative venues or making necessary adjustments to the event schedule, all aimed at ensuring the successful execution of the 33rd SEA Games as originally planned.
The 33rd Southeast Asian Games are scheduled to take place from December 9 to 20 across three key Thai cities: Bangkok, Songkhla, and Chonburi. The prestigious multi-sport event is expected to welcome approximately 12,500 athletes from 11 Southeast Asian nations, who will compete across 574 events spanning a total of 50 different sports.
