Death toll in Thai floods climbs to 33 as Hat Yai faces evacuations
Death toll in Thai floods climbs to 33 as Hat Yai faces evacuations
Southern Thailand faces devastating floods with 33 lives lost across seven provinces as Hat Yai and Songkhla brace for more rain.
The death toll from days of widespread flooding in southern Thailand has risen to 33, spanning seven provinces as emergency crews scramble to reach stranded residents. The figures, provided by government spokespeople, list causes including flash floods, electrocution and drowning, underscoring the danger residents faced as waters surged through towns and villages. Officials cautioned that while some areas might see rain easing, the south remains on high alert as water levels slowly decline in parts of the region.
The government declared a state of emergency in Songkhla on Tuesday after torrential rains since late last week inundated the southern region and the tourist hub of Hat Yai. More than 1,200 people have been evacuated from their homes in Songkhla since Thursday, with shelters and temporary housing set up to accommodate those displaced. Rescue teams, police and volunteers have been working around the clock to deliver food, medicines and blankets to affected communities, while transportation networks grapple with closures and detours.
Experts warn that weather patterns in the area are being intensified by climate change, making extreme rainfall events more frequent and severe. Local authorities say they are coordinating with national agencies to assess damage, repair infrastructure and bolster flood defenses as the situation evolves.
Emergency operations continue as authorities monitor ongoing rainfall and water levels, urging residents to heed evacuation orders and stay away from floodwaters. While some relief is arriving, many residents remain in shelters or temporary camps, awaiting clearer weather and the next phase of recovery efforts.
Officials stressed that recovery will take time and will require sustained support for affected families, businesses and tourism-dependent communities that have been hit hard by the floods.
Cover image source: Death toll rises to 33 due to floods in southern Thailand 🔗
