Record Floods in Thailand Leave 33 Dead, Thousands Stranded

Hat Yai, Thailand — Parts of Thailand are experiencing catastrophic floods that have left at least 33 people dead. The flooding has prompted officials to deploy military ships and helicopters for relief operations.

The deluge has impacted 10 provinces in southern Thailand over the past week, with the city of Hat Yai reporting its heaviest rainfall in 300 years—335 mm in a single day. Photos from the affected area show cars and homes submerged as residents await rescue on rooftops.

Neighboring countries are also facing severe weather conditions. In Vietnam, flooding has affected many areas, while in Malaysia, over 19,000 people have been displaced from their homes. In Indonesia, at least 19 people have died and several others are unaccounted for in landslides in North Sumatra, according to the Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency.

In Thailand, more than 2 million people have been impacted by the floods, but only 13,000 have been relocated to shelters. Many remain isolated and unable to receive assistance, as confirmed by reports from Reuters.

The Thai military has assumed control of the response and plans to send an aircraft carrier along with a flotilla of 14 boats carrying relief supplies. They also announced the establishment of field kitchens capable of serving 3,000 meals daily. The navy stated that medical teams aboard will transform the aircraft carrier into a “floating hospital” if necessary.

Governor of Songkhla province, which includes Hat Yai, reported that boats, high-clearance trucks, and jet skis have been dispatched to evacuate stranded residents. The cabinet declared Songkhla a disaster zone on Tuesday, allowing access to emergency funds for relief efforts.

Despite these efforts, many individuals are stuck amid rising waters. A volunteer rescue group, Matchima Rescue Center, said it has received thousands of evacuation requests in the last three days. Urgent pleas for help can be found on their Facebook page. One message read, “Many people are trapped… Please help. It’s very difficult right now. The water has reached the second floor, where there are children, the elderly, the sick, and the disabled!”

Another observer shared their desperation: “Every second is crucial now… Please help share. My phone’s battery is at 40%. Thank you everyone.” Some reported lacking food and water for several days.

Social media clips have showcased the dire situation, including video of three boys clinging to power lines as floodwaters rise beneath them.

In Malaysia, over 19,000 people have been safely evacuated, with 126 emergency shelters established in northern areas. Rescue teams in Kelantan and Perlis have navigated knee-deep floodwaters to assist residents who have lost road access due to flooding.

While heavy rain is common in Southeast Asia during this season, this year’s flooding has reached unprecedented levels.