Major floods hit Southern Thailand, Narathiwat and Yala worst ffected

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Southern Thailand faces a dire flood crisis affecting thousands. Narathiwat and Yala bear the brunt, urging emergency response.

Severe flooding has wreaked havoc in southern Thailand, impacting tens of thousands of residents and disrupting essential services. The provinces of Narathiwat and Yala, near the Malaysian border, are grappling with submerged roads, closed schools, and residents stranded on the rooftops of their flooded homes. As torrential rain persists, the situation is further complicated by sunken boats in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea. Authorities are on high alert, urging residents to be prepared for evacuation if the floods intensify.

The province of Narathiwat has borne the brunt of the flooding, with some areas submerged for days. Thai PBS reports that numerous residents have sought assistance, and distressingly, some are sitting atop their flooded homes awaiting rescue. Over a dozen schools in Narathiwat and neighboring Yala have been forced to close, impacting the education of countless students. Heart-wrenching images from the region depict homes and shops inundated with water, creating a dire need for immediate relief efforts.

The torrential rain has not spared the sea, leading to the sinking of at least seven boats in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea. The state railway company has announced disruptions, citing track subsidence, forcing trains heading south to Malaysia to stop prematurely at Yala, 100km away from the border. This disruption compounds the challenges faced by residents and further underscores the gravity of the situation.

Authorities have issued warnings to residents, advising them to be ready for evacuation if the flooding worsens. This proactive approach aims to minimize casualties and safeguard lives amid the unfolding crisis. Unfortunately, this is not the first time the region has faced such calamities. In December of the previous year, severe floods claimed at least three lives, highlighting the vulnerability of the area to natural disasters.

As southern Thailand battles the aftermath of intense rainfall, the resilience of its residents is put to the test. The need for coordinated relief efforts, both immediate and long-term, is evident. The international community must stand in solidarity with the affected region, extending support and resources to aid in the recovery process.

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