Thailand & Malaysia Floods Devastate Tourism Industry, Thousands Displaced, Attractions Closed – A Crisis for Travellers: All You Need to Know

Published on November 27, 2025

Southern Thailand and Malaysia are reeling from catastrophic flooding that has severely impacted tourism, displacing thousands of people and causing extensive damage to infrastructure. Tourist hotspots in both countries have been submerged under heavy rain and flash floods, with many popular attractions shut down. This unprecedented disaster has turned the once-thriving tourist destinations into scenes of chaos, making it difficult for travellers to access the region. The devastating effects of this natural calamity on tourism are already being felt, with cancelled bookings and disrupted travel plans becoming the norm.

Widespread Destruction and Casualties: A Regional Crisis

As the floods worsen, the government of Thailand has reported that at least 33 people have lost their lives, while over 2.7 million residents are now affected. In Malaysia, flooding has left thousands displaced, with over 20,000 people seeking refuge in evacuation centres. The sudden surge of water, driven by the monsoon rains, has crippled transportation systems in both countries, further disrupting regional tourism.

Reports indicate that Hat Yai, a bustling tourist city in southern Thailand, is now unrecognizable. The once-vibrant destination is now submerged, causing major disruptions for travellers. Tourists planning to visit Thailand’s southern provinces have been forced to cancel their trips, while flights, trains, and buses have been halted. In Malaysia, states like Kelantan, Perlis, and Selangor have been affected, with floodwaters flooding roads and halting services.

Tourism Industry Faces A Massive Setback: Hotels, Flights, and Attractions Hit Hard

Tourism officials have expressed deep concern over the long-term impact of the floods on the tourism industry. In Thailand, many national parks, popular tourist spots, and even shopping centres have been closed. The local tourism authorities have warned travellers to avoid areas severely affected by the floods. With roads impassable, flights cancelled, and marine tours suspended, those who planned to visit southern Thailand are facing frustration.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has issued warnings, stating that while some destinations like Phuket and Krabi remain open, accessibility is limited, and the safety of travellers remains a major concern. Ko Samui and Ko Tao, popular island destinations, are still operational but have experienced delays due to weather conditions and fewer transport options. Malaysia is similarly struggling, with significant disruptions to travel and tourism.

The Humanitarian Crisis: The Impact on Locals and Businesses

This disaster has affected more than just tourists. Local businesses, especially in tourist-dependent areas, are facing severe financial losses. With tourists cancelling their bookings and flights to Thailand and Malaysia, the hospitality sector has come to a standstill. Hotels, tour operators, and small businesses are now counting their losses. For many of them, this is their busiest season, and the prolonged closures and flooding are expected to hit their bottom line hard.

Locals are also suffering. Many people have lost their homes, and families are seeking refuge in evacuation centres. Essential services have been disrupted, and access to clean water and food is limited. The devastation caused by the floods is forcing governments and aid organizations to mobilize quickly to support the affected communities.

The Tourism Crisis: Immediate Impact on Travel

As the floods continue, travel within and around the affected areas of southern Thailand and Malaysia is becoming increasingly difficult. Many national parks, popular tourist attractions, and other sites remain closed for safety reasons. The Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre has been activated by Thai authorities to coordinate efforts to support both residents and tourists, but travellers are urged to be cautious and reconsider travel plans to the most affected regions.

Given the widespread closures, both countries are likely to see a sharp decline in tourism arrivals. Many tourists are already shifting their plans to alternative destinations within Southeast Asia. The economic impact on tourism is substantial, and it could take months to recover from the damage. Thailand, which relies heavily on international tourism, is likely to see a significant drop in its tourism revenue, which could have far-reaching consequences for local economies.

Government and Rescue Efforts: Providing Support to Tourists and Locals

The government of Thailand has deployed rescue teams, and evacuation efforts are underway in the hardest-hit regions. The Sadao Border Crossing, which connects Thailand to Malaysia, has remained open to facilitate safe passage for both locals and foreign nationals. In addition, Thai authorities are making every effort to airlift stranded tourists to safety.

Meanwhile, the Malaysian government has activated emergency response teams in the affected states, with over 100,000 displaced persons in need of urgent help. The authorities have issued warnings about the floods and advised citizens and tourists to stay updated on the situation.

For those still planning to travel, authorities are recommending checking official travel advisories and avoiding regions with heavy flooding. Travel disruptions are expected to continue for the foreseeable future, and both countries are advising against non-essential travel to affected zones.

The Climate Crisis: A Warning for Southeast Asia’s Future

The current flooding crisis in Thailand and Malaysia is not just an isolated incident but a reflection of the growing risks posed by climate change. Experts suggest that the extreme weather patterns, exacerbated by global warming, are contributing to increasingly severe monsoons. These are not just seasonal phenomena; they are becoming part of a broader pattern of unpredictable weather events. Areas that were once relatively safe from severe flooding are now experiencing massive destruction.

As the tourism industry faces a crisis, it’s clear that climate adaptation strategies must be urgently implemented. Improved flood management infrastructure, better disaster preparedness, and resilient urban planning are critical to mitigating the long-term impact of such events on communities and tourism alike.

A Major Setback for Regional Tourism

The ongoing floods in Thailand and Malaysia represent more than just a temporary travel disruption — they are a significant blow to the tourism industry in both countries. With infrastructure damaged, tourist sites closed, and widespread cancellations, the tourism sector in southern Thailand and Malaysia is facing one of its worst crises in recent memory. For now, the focus must remain on the immediate needs of the affected populations, while governments and businesses look ahead to long-term recovery strategies. For those with travel plans to the region, it is crucial to stay informed and adjust plans accordingly.