Southern Thailand Reels from Historic Flooding, Leaving Dozens Dead and Thousands displaced
Bangkok – Unprecedented rainfall, described as the heaviest in 300 years, has triggered severe flooding across southern Thailand, resulting in at least 33 fatalities and widespread devastation. The royal Irrigation Department confirmed the extreme weather event, with Hat Yai City in Songkhla province bearing the brunt of the disaster.
The historic deluge, which saw 335 millimeters of rain fall in a single day – an event statistically expected to occur only once every three centuries – has submerged homes and infrastructure, disrupting transportation and trade. The flooding extends beyond Thailand’s borders, impacting northern malaysia and displacing 27,000 people. This disaster underscores the increasing vulnerability of southeast Asia to extreme weather events,perhaps exacerbated by climate change,and highlights the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the region.
Floodwaters in Hat Yai reached heights of 2.5 meters, inundating streets and homes. Images from the area depict widespread submersion and emergency crews utilizing boats to rescue residents and deliver essential aid. The Thai military has mobilized significant resources, deploying approximately 200 boats, 20 helicopters, and an aircraft carrier to support relief and rescue operations.
according to Thai government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat, the deaths across seven provinces were attributed to drowning, being swept away by currents, electric shock, and landslides. Neighboring Malaysia‘s Kelantan state has also been severely affected, reporting one fatality alongside the mass displacement.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and are working to provide assistance to those affected. The long-term impact on the region’s economy and infrastructure remains to be seen.
(haf/imk)