Hat Yai Floods Hit Critical Level

SONGKHLA, Nov 24 (TNA) - Severe flooding has reached a critical stage in the Hat Yai district of Songkhla, with continued heavy rainfall preventing effective drainage and causing a rapid surge in water levels. 

The crisis is particularly acute in the commercial heart of Hat Yai Municipality, where water has risen by up to one meter in some low-lying spots.

This has trapped numerous residents and tourists, notably Malaysian nationals, in hotels and residential buildings. 

The speed of the deluge caught many off guard; vehicles parked on high ground for safety are now submerged, indicating that the floodwaters have surpassed previous expectations. 

Access to the worst-hit areas is severely restricted, relying almost entirely on boats and Thai Army trucks for rescue and aid delivery, as many homeowners choose to stay on their second floors to protect property.

Relief efforts remain challenged, with volunteers struggling to deliver essential supplies like food and water to isolated zones.

The crisis extends beyond the city center; in outlying, low-lying communities, floodwaters have exceeded two meters, forcing some families to evacuate to their rooftops before being rescued. 

In response to the growing disaster, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Sunday visited a temporary shelter to assess the damage, distribute survival kits, and inspect the Royal Kitchen operations. He urged all displaced residents to remain in the designated shelters until the receding floodwaters guarantee their safety. -819 (TNA)