A 43-year-old British tourist lost his life while swimming in the waters off Karon Beach in Phuket, Thailand, despite prominent warnings to stay out of the sea. The incident occurred on a day when strong rip currents and whirlpools were present, with several red flags displayed along the shoreline to alert visitors of the dangers. However, the tourist chose to ignore these safety signals and ventured into the water with a friend.
As they swam, the tourist was suddenly sucked into a channel and struggled to cope with the powerful current. A friend on the shore quickly raised the alarm, and a lifeguard helped pull him back onto the beach, where CPR was administered. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the tourist did not survive and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Phuket’s beaches, particularly Karon and Kata, are known for their strong currents during the monsoon season, which runs from September to December. Local authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to safety warnings, especially during this time. Lieutenant Colonel Eakkasak Fanwhan warned that even experienced swimmers can be caught off guard by the hidden currents and whirlpools, making it crucial for visitors to heed the red flags and avoid swimming in prohibited areas.
