Flooding in Southern Thailand Kills Nine, Displaces Over 13,000

Rescue Efforts Underway as Heavy Rains Continue

Flooding driven by heavy rains in southern Thailand has killed nine people and displaced more than 13,000, officials said Saturday, as rescue teams using boats and jet skis worked to reach stranded residents. Local media footage showed residents wading through murky, chest-deep water and cars submerged in flooded streets.

Widespread Disruption and Damage

“Flooding across eight provinces in southern Thailand has affected 553,921 households and claimed nine lives, prompting agencies to mobilise urgent assistance,” the country’s disaster agency said on its official Facebook page. More than 13,000 people had been forced to flee their homes, with temporary shelters set up in schools and temples, it added.

Concerns Over Food Supplies and Medical Facilities

Nampa, a resident of coastal Songkhla province, told state broadcaster Thai PBS she was concerned about the dwindling food supplies. “We are doing fine now, but I am not sure how long can we stay in this condition,” she said. Two hospitals in nearby Pattani province suspended operations to prevent floodwaters from damaging medical facilities.

Regional Impact and International Response

In neighbouring north Malaysia, the rains have forced the evacuation of at least 80,000 people to temporary shelters this week, with disaster officials there saying at least four people have been killed. The Thai Meteorological Department has warned that “very heavy rain” could continue to affect some areas of the country’s south through next week.

Government Response and Relief Efforts

The government has deployed rescue teams to assist affected residents and designated 50 million baht ($1.7 million) in flood relief for each province. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said Friday on social media platform X that the goal was to “restore normalcy as quickly as possible”.

Climate Change and Flooding

While Thailand experiences annual monsoon rains, scientists say man-made climate change is causing more intense weather patterns that can make destructive floods more likely. Widespread flooding across the country in 2011 killed more than 500 people and damaged millions of homes.

Conclusion

The flooding in southern Thailand is a devastating reminder of the impact of heavy rainfall and the importance of preparedness and response. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial that rescue efforts are sustained and that affected communities receive the support they need to recover.

FAQs

* How many people have been killed in the flooding?
+ Nine people have been killed in the flooding.
* How many people have been displaced?
+ More than 13,000 people have been displaced.
* What is the extent of the damage?
+ The flooding has affected 553,921 households and damaged medical facilities and homes.
* What is the government’s response?
+ The government has deployed rescue teams and designated 50 million baht in flood relief for each province.