Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Issues Navigation Precautions for February 16-22, 2026
Koh Samui Marine Department issues navigation precautions for Feb 16-22, 2026, due to thunderstorms and rough seas. Vessels under 9m advised not to sail. All mariners must exercise caution.
Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Issues Navigation Precautions for February 16-22, 2026
Heads up, Koh Samui! From Feb 16-22, 2026, expect rough seas and thunderstorms in the lower Gulf of Thailand. Vessels under 9 meters should stay ashore, and larger boats should proceed with extreme caution.
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Marine Weather Monitoring and Forecast
The Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Office has announced increased weather monitoring and navigation safety measures for the period of February 16-22, 2026. This follows forecasts from the Meteorological Department, indicating that the southern region of Thailand, especially the lower Gulf of Thailand, will experience heightened thunderstorms and rough sea conditions.
Wave and Thunderstorm Conditions
During this week, mariners in the lower Gulf of Thailand should expect waves ranging from 1 to 2 meters in height. In areas affected by thunderstorms, wave heights can exceed 2 meters. Although the amount of rainfall in the region is expected to decrease from February 19-22, thunderstorms and moderate wave conditions will persist, maintaining a risk for those at sea.
Specific Vessel Guidelines
The following guidance has been issued to ensure the safety of all marine activities in the affected areas:
- Vessels shorter than 9 meters are advised not to leave shore or, if possible, to refrain from going out to sea altogether during the period of heightened risk.
- Vessels longer than 9 meters should exercise extreme caution while navigating, especially near areas of active thunderstorms or elevated wave activity.
Safety Instructions for Mariners
To promote safe navigation, the Marine Department provides these essential safety instructions:
- Carefully inspect the vessel's engine, communication devices, and all essential equipment to confirm they are in optimal condition before each departure.
- Monitor up-to-date weather forecasts and alerts before heading out to sea.
- In case of emergency, mariners should contact the 24-hour safety hotline at 1199 or reach the Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Office at 077-426157.
Additional Considerations for Marine Activities
The Gulf of Thailand is known for rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly during the monsoon and transitional seasons. Mariners, fishermen, and commercial operators should stay informed of ongoing updates from both the Marine Department and the Meteorological Department.
For tourism operators, such as ferry and dive boat companies, it is essential to communicate risks to passengers and consider modifying or postponing trips based on the latest safety advisories. Life jackets should be available for all passengers, and emergency protocols should be reviewed regularly.
Staying Informed During Severe Weather
Regular weather bulletins are available from the Thai Meteorological Department online and through local news outlets. Navigation and safety advisories are frequently updated by the Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Office, particularly during periods of unstable weather. Mariners are encouraged to subscribe to official weather alert services and remain vigilant throughout the advisory period.
For more information and real-time updates, contact the Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Office or use the national maritime safety hotline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Koh Samui Regional Marine Department: Marine Safety FAQ (February 16-22, 2026)
What are the key marine weather hazards expected in the lower Gulf of Thailand during February 16-22, 2026?
During this period, the lower Gulf of Thailand will experience rough seas with waves between 1-2 meters, rising above 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. Frequent thunderstorms are expected, and while rainfall may decrease slightly after February 19, moderate wave and stormy conditions will continue, posing risks to all marine activities.
What are the safety guidelines for different types of vessels during this weather advisory?
- Vessels under 9 meters in length are advised to stay ashore and avoid going out to sea entirely during the advisory period.
- Vessels over 9 meters should proceed with extreme caution, especially near thunderstorm-affected areas or where waves are elevated.
- All boat operators must carefully inspect their engines, communications, and safety equipment before departure, and keep updated with the latest weather forecasts.
How can mariners and tourism operators stay informed and respond to emergencies during this period?
- Regularly monitor official bulletins from the Thai Meteorological Department and Koh Samui Regional Marine Department for real-time weather and navigation updates.
- Ensure all passengers have access to life jackets, review emergency protocols, and modify or postpone trips if necessary.
- In an emergency, contact the 24-hour maritime safety hotline at 1199 or call the Koh Samui Regional Marine Department Office at 077-426157 for immediate assistance.