The death toll from severe flooding in southern Thailand has climbed to more than 80, officials said on Saturday, even as water levels in several hard-hit provinces have begun to recede. Days of relentless monsoon rains triggered flash floods and landslides across the region, inundating homes, destroying roads and cutting off access to dozens of villages.
Rescue teams have been working around the clock to reach communities that were left isolated when swollen rivers overflowed and bridges collapsed. Authorities said many of the victims were swept away by fast-moving waters or trapped in homes that were quickly submerged. Search efforts continue, with local officials warning that the death toll may rise as responders gain access to previously unreachable areas.
Thousands of residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters, while government agencies distribute food, drinking water and medical supplies. The military has deployed boats and helicopters to assist in relief operations and to ferry stranded people to safety. Although waters are gradually receding, large swathes of farmland remain underwater, raising concerns about long-term economic losses for farming communities.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed condolences to the families of the victims and directed emergency agencies to accelerate relief and rehabilitation efforts. Meteorologists said more rainfall is expected in parts of the country next week, urging residents to stay alert and follow updates from local authorities.
