The British Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) has issued Thailand's latest travel advisory following the 8.2 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar. Authorities have warned of potential aftershocks and urged residents and travelers to stay vigilant.
The earthquakes that hit Myanmar's border areas were so powerful that they felt hundreds of kilometers away in Thailand, especially in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and other northern provinces. Witnesses from the capital reported that they would shake up buildings, cracked walls and people evacuating high-rise structures for fear of collapse. Some commercial buildings and residential areas maintain structural damage, but have been fully evaluated by Thai authorities.
Public transport in Bangkok has been temporarily confused, with BTS' Skytrain and MRT's subway systems temporarily suspended operations for safety inspections. The airport remains operating, but some flights have experienced temporary delays due to preventive checks on the runway and infrastructure.
So far, one fatality has been reported, with dozens more injured. Emergency Services continues to assess affected areas and respond to reports of injuries and structural damage. The hospital and first responders are on high alert, and officials have warned that aftershocks could pose additional dangers in the coming hours.
In light of the earthquake, FCDO is urging UK travelers in Thailand to pay attention to the guidance of local governments and tour operators. The agency advises visitors:
Stay up to date through local news and government alerts.
In the case of aftershocks, identify safe locations and avoid tall buildings, bridges and unstable structures.
Check with your airline or transport provider for any confusion.
Keep emergency contact information handy, including the British Embassy in Bangkok (+66 023058333).
The Thai government has revitalized emergency response teams to assess the damages and provide assistance when necessary. Rescue personnel are performing structural inspections and evacuation procedures may be carried out in areas that are seriously affected.
Seismicians warn that aftershocks could continue in the coming days, causing further damage to already weakened buildings. Thai people are advised to prepare by accustomed to emergency exits in hotels and public buildings. If you are evacuating the building, avoid the elevator and choose to blow out the stairs.
Make sure to make sure your equipment is accessible, such as water, food, and flashlights, and follow the official Thai government's instructions regarding safety zones and possible evacuation.
Thailand was a strong sense of trembling in major tourist hotspots, especially in Bangkok and the northern region. The UK Foreign Office has not issued a blanket travel ban in Thailand, but British citizens are advised to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols.
However, travelers should also note that the FCDO continues to advise on all essential travel to southern Thailand, particularly to certain areas near the borders of Malaysia. Travelers visiting restricted areas may void their travel insurance. This can affect medical emergency and claims for cancellation of trips.
For Thai people in need of urgent help, the British Embassy in Bangkok is available to assist +66 023058333. The situation is evolving and further updates will be provided as staff assess the full impact of the earthquake.
