Foreign Office issue urgent warning for Brits to avoid parts of Thailand

The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning for Brits to avoid "all but essential travel" to parts of Thailand due to 'heavy rains, flooding and the threat of terrorism'

The Foreign Office has flagged up a stark alert for Brit tourists, urging them to steer clear of "all but essential travel" to specific areas in Thailand.

Following the latest safety and security concerns highlighted by Government updates, they have broadcasted warnings about potential dangers due to severe weather conditions such as torrential rain, flooding as well as threats of terrorism.

Ignoring this advice not only puts your safety at risk it might also leave you without valid travel insurance. The avoid-at-all-costs regions outlined are certain southern territories close to the border with Malaysia, which are prone to "regular terrorist attacks", and parts of northern Thailand currently plagued by "widespread flooding".

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Visiting the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) online portal provides a grim narrative: "FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of the south, near the Thailand-Malaysia border."

The FCDO has also stressed caution regarding travel on the Hat Yai to Padang Besar railway service, which traverses these danger zones. "FCDO also advises against all but essential travel on the Hat Yai to Padang Besar train line that runs through these provinces," per the FCDO statement. "This is due to regular terrorist attacks in the provinces by the border with Malaysia", reports the Express.

Delving deeper into the specifics, the FCDO announces: "There are regular terrorist attacks in the four provinces in the southern tip of Thailand by the border with Malaysia. However, terrorist attacks could take place anywhere in Thailand. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities."

In light of the severe weather conditions, the FCDO has advised against travel to the city of Chiang Mai or areas near the Ping River. The advice continued: "Thailand is currently facing heavy rains and flooding in parts of the country, including widespread flooding in northern Thailand. Local authorities have issued warnings related to areas near the Ping River, including in central Chiang Mai. Remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities."

The FCDO also highlighted the high risk of road traffic accidents in Thailand, particularly involving motorcycles, and urged visitors to exercise caution when driving. The World Health Organisation (WHO) ranks Thailand as one of the world's deadliest countries for fatalities on motorcycles.