By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Southern Thailand is reeling from devastating floods that have killed at least 13 people and left thousands stranded, with large areas submerged under water. The floods, triggered by heavy rainfall, have affected nine provinces, impacting approximately 2.1 million people.
According to Thai officials, the province of Songkhla has been declared a disaster zone, freeing up funds for a rapid response to the ongoing disaster.
The floods have inundated Hat Yai district, with waters rising as high as 2 meters (6.6 feet) in some areas, following a record-breaking 335mm (13 inches) of rain on Friday, its highest in a single day for three centuries.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported that about 150,000 people were stranded in Hat Yai, while the Bangkok Post stated that 13,000 people have moved to shelters.
Many others remain cut off and unable to receive help, with rescue efforts hindered by the rising waters.
Seree Supratid, the director of the Climate Change and Disaster Centre at Rangsit University and vice president of the National Disaster Warning Council Foundation, described the situation as critical, stating that the floods have left thousands stranded and in dire need of assistance.
The Thai military has deployed reinforcements, including a C-130 cargo plane with medicine, food, and water supplies, 14 rubber boats, and the aircraft carrier Chakri Naruebet carrying two helicopters, doctors, and field kitchens. The carrier can also serve as a floating hospital.
“The fleet is ready to deliver forces and carry out actions as the Royal Navy orders,” the military said in a statement, adding that the carrier’s deployment would enhance rescue efforts.
In neighboring Malaysia, over 19,000 people have been evacuated from flooded areas to 126 shelters, mainly in northern border areas.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged people to comply with evacuation orders, stating, “In this difficult and challenging time, I pray that all flood victims are granted strength, resilience, and protected from any harm.”
The floods have also disrupted industrial activities, with hundreds of factories flooded and at least 17 power plants offline, affecting the region’s rubber production and export.
Industry Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana warned that the floods would have significant economic implications for the region.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to respond to the disaster, with thousands of stranded people desperate for help. Social media is filled with pleas from those seeking assistance, including Pingojung Ping, who wrote, “Water is on the second floor now… Pray. Please help.”
The Hong Tep, another stranded individual, posted, “We are five people and a small child without rice and water… Phone reception has been cut – water is rising fast.”
As the situation continues to unfold, the government and rescue teams are urging people to remain calm and follow evacuation orders.
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