Hat Yai Flood Relief Intensifies as Thousands Flee Rising Waters
Thailand’s southern city of Hat Yai is racing to respond to severe flooding that has forced thousands into overcrowded evacuation centers. The government’s Emergency Flood Crisis Operations Center confirmed that all national resources have been mobilized as waters continue to inundate large parts of Songkhla province.
Authorities have divided Hat Yai into four emergency zones, coordinated by the Royal Thai Armed Forces and supported by the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police. The joint operation aims to reach submerged neighborhoods as quickly as possible.
Nine evacuation centers are currently open. Prince of Songkla University—originally prepared for 3,000 evacuees—is now sheltering more than 5,000 people. Eight other shelters, including temples and municipal facilities, are hosting over 8,000 displaced residents, with several centers exceeding capacity.
More than 3,000 personnel are deployed with 85 boats, 12 helicopters, five C-130 aircraft, 81 jet skis, and extensive medical and communications equipment. Authorities have received over 40,000 requests for assistance affecting 77,000 people, with 3,000 cases listed as urgent. Drones and additional C-130 flights are being used to rescue stranded individuals and support airlift operations.
Rescue and relief remain the top priority. Economic recovery efforts will follow, with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas set to lead discussions on financial aid for flood-affected communities across the southern region.
