Thailand’s government has declared a state of emergency in the southern province of Songkhla following severe and deadly flooding across the region, which has impacted an estimated 2.2 million people.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the emergency declaration on Tuesday as unprecedented rainfall and rising waters overwhelmed the area, causing widespread property damage and posing a critical threat to public safety. In response to the crisis, the government has moved to establish a specialized command center to coordinate rescue and relief operations.
The monsoon-driven disaster has wreaked havoc across nine of Thailand’s southern provinces, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Authorities have confirmed the devastating floods have tragically claimed 13 lives across the affected areas.
The situation is expected to remain critical, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning that a strong northeast monsoon, combined with an intense low-pressure cell covering the lower southern region and Malaysia, will continue to bring heavy rainfall. Officials have cautioned residents to remain vigilant for an increased risk of flash floods and dangerous runoff from mountain slopes. (Xinhua)