Fears over 'at least four' tourist deaths in a week on popular holiday island

The deaths of at least four tourists on a popular holiday island have raised major fears about safety amid Thailand's northwest monsoon season. At least four holidaymakers, from Sweden, the USA and Russia, died on Phuket in less than a week this month, prompting a review of safety and security practices at the popular tourist spot. The fatalities were linked to overpowering ocean rip currents, a phenomenon amplified by high humidity and atmospheric turbulance from the ongoing monsoon season.

Authorities are considering adding more lifeguards and warning signs to the island's beaches, and they have also been advised to upgrade available safety gear, have an emergency team on-call around the clock and educate travellers about the dangers of swimming during the monsoon. Last Wednesday, a 68-year-old Swedish man collapsed on Kata Beach while wading through shallow water and could not be revived by lifeguards, according to the Thai Examiner.

On Thursday, a 35-year-old Russian man drowned while on a midnight swim between Banana Beach and Nai Thon Beach, Khaosod newspaper reported. His 24-year-old girlfriend said he had pushed her towards the shore after large waves suddenly struck, but couldn't make it out himself.

Hours later, beachgoers pulled two men out of the water on Kata Beach after noticing they were struggling in the water - but only managed to save the life of one.

The following day, the body of a 28-year-old American man washed up on Patong Beach. His body has been sent for an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

A 10-year-old girl from Canada was also swept away while swimming with her family earlier this month after no red warning flags were put on the seafront despite strong waves.

The popular beaches of Batong, Kata and Karon on Phuket attract thousands of international visitors every year - but their crystal clear waters can pose a serious threat during monsoon season, which runs from May to October, bringing with it heavy rainfall, high humidity and unpredictable sea conditions.

The northwest monsoon period has traditionally been Phuket's 'off-season', with the less settled weather not as appealing as its peak period from November to February.

However, shifts in traveller priorities to more budget-friendly holiday options have meant an uptick in demand for the less popular months - necessitating a shift in approach to the safety measures in place year-round.

The response to the recent series of deaths has already included public awareness campaigns being launched at resorts and hotels on the island, according to local reports, advising visitors to follow warnings and only swim in patrolled areas.