Thailand Declares Emergency as Deadly Floods Submerge Hat Yai and Displace Millions

Thailand Flood News: Floods in Thailand today caused by torrential monsoon rains in the Southeast Asia floods includes Malaysia resulted in 13 fatalities and widespread evacuations as rescue efforts stepped up.

The government of Songkhla province declared a state of emergency on Tuesday after severe rainfall in southern Thailand triggered devastating floods, submerging the popular city of Hat Yai to the waist.

At least 13 people have died in four flood-affected regions, according to officials. Thailand also got ready on Tuesday to send out a naval flotilla consisting of 14 boats and the aircraft carrier Chakri Naruebet, which will transport supplies, medical personnel, helicopters, and field kitchens that can produce 3,000 meals a day.

The Royal Navy stated in a statement that the carrier may act as a floating hospital and that the fleet is prepared to transfer troops and carry out operations as directed by the Navy.

Due to anticipated wave heights above three meters, the national meteorological organization has issued a warning of persistent heavy rain and potential flash floods, recommending that small boats stay ashore.

In the midst of rising water levels, rescue teams in Hat Yai were shown on television evacuating people using boats, jet skis, and military trucks. To get their kids to safety, some families used inflatable kid pools. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced more boats and trucks to help in evacuation efforts, while the provincial administration reported that over 1,200 people had been saved from flooded homes.

Although Thailand frequently sees intense monsoon rains from June to September, researchers claim that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe due to human-caused climate change. Parts of Hat Yai and the neighboring areas have been submerged due to days of heavy rain since late last week, and evacuations are still in progress.

In addition to Songkhla and Hat Yai, flooding has impacted eight states in neighboring Malaysia and nine provinces in Thailand. An estimated 1.9 million people were affected by waters that reached up to two meters in some places, according to officials.