At least 80 people have died in Thailand as the country battles its worst flooding in 300 years, with more than 3 million people affected after more than a week of relentless rainfall.
According to the Associated Press (AP), Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said on Thursday that 12 southern provinces remain submerged. Although water levels have begun to recede in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Trang, Satun, Pattani and Yala, officials warn the danger is far from over.
Nearly one million families remain trapped by floodwaters.
Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat told in a press briefing at Bangkok that flood-related deaths in Songkhla province had surged from six to 55 by Thursday. Across seven provinces, at least 82 people have died so far.
He said authorities expect river levels in affected areas to fall by Thursday evening.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declared a state of emergency earlier in the week in Songkhla, home to Hat Yai—southern Thailand’s largest city.
Footage from Hat Yai on Thursday showed floodwaters receding, but widespread devastation visible across the city. Thousands remain stranded, while power, water and communication lines have been cut in many areas.
According to the Health Ministry, Hat Yai Hospital has also sustained flood damage and is unable to operate at full capacity. Authorities have set up eight temporary field hospitals to treat the injured.
At least 20 critically ill patients were airlifted on Thursday, while additional food supplies were dispatched for medical workers and patients.
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the death toll from severe flooding and landslides on Sumatra Island has risen to 90. Rescue officials said on Friday that dozens more remain missing.
North Sumatra police spokesperson Ferry Walintukan said, “As of this morning, the death toll is 62. At least 95 people are injured, and 65 others are still unaccounted for.”
The West Sumatra disaster management agency reported at least 22 deaths in the province, with 12 others still missing.
