Thailand startled by eleven bombs in one day

[CrazyExpat]

The normally quite and peaceful country of Thailand had 11 bombs go on in the past 24 hours.  As of this post, there are 4 dead and over 30 injured.  The US Embassy has issued a travel advisory for the country.

This is an update to the Security Message sent to U.S. citizens on the morning of August 12, 2016.  

Since late on August 11, multiple bombing incidents have occurred in parts of Thailand, including in Hua Hin, Phang Nga, Trang, Surat Thani, and Phuket. The latest incident occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. today, August 12.  Thai local law enforcement and media are reporting at least four deaths and 37 injuries.  No U.S. citizens have been identified among the victims.  

Royal Thai Police have indicated that the immediate areas near the incidents will remain closed for investigation.  Law enforcement presence throughout Thailand is expected to be enhanced until further notice.  U.S. citizens should avoid affected areas; remain aware of surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.  Maintain a high level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security, and follow instructions of local authorities. 

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Thailand enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov.  STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency.  If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution.  Read the Country Specific Information for Thailand.  For additional information, refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” on the State Department’s website.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions.  You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The American Citizen Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road in Bangkok, and can be reached by calling +66-2-205-4049, or by e-mailing acsbkk@state.gov. The Embassy’s after-hours emergency telephone number is +66-2-205-4000.  You can also follow us on Twitter @acsbkk. 

The U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai is located at 387 Wichayanond Road in Chiang Mai. The American Citizen Services Unit of the Consulate General can be reached by calling +66-53-107-777 and by e-mail at acschn@state.gov. The after-hours emergency telephone number is +66-81-881-1878.