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Catastrophic flooding in southern Thailand has killed 33 people, with record rainfall submerging entire cities. Military deployed aircraft carrier for relief operations amid regional climate crisis affecting millions.
Catastrophic Flooding Claims 33 Lives in Southern Thailand
Severe flooding in southern Thailand has claimed 33 lives as the region experiences what officials are calling a once-in-300-years event. The death toll has steadily climbed as rescue teams battle challenging conditions to reach stranded residents in the worst-hit provinces.
Record-Breaking Rainfall Overwhelms Infrastructure
The crisis began when torrential monsoon rains pounded southern Thailand, with Hat Yai city receiving an unprecedented 335 millimeters of rainfall in a single day on November 21, 2025. 'This is the heaviest rainfall we've recorded in three centuries,' said a local meteorological official who requested anonymity. The deluge overwhelmed drainage systems and caused flash flooding that submerged entire neighborhoods under up to 2.5 meters of water.
According to Reuters reports, the fatalities resulted from various causes including drowning, electrocution, and landslides. The flooding has affected approximately 2.7 million people across nine provinces, with over 980,000 homes inundated by the rising waters.
Military Mobilizes Major Relief Operation
The Thai government has launched a massive relief effort, deploying military assets including the country's only aircraft carrier, HTMS Chakri Naruebet. 'We are using every available resource to save lives and provide assistance,' declared Defense Minister Suthin Klangsaeng during a press conference.
The aircraft carrier serves as a floating command center equipped with rescue helicopters, medical teams functioning as a mobile hospital, and field kitchens capable of producing 3,000 meals daily. Additional support vessels and approximately 200 boats are involved in rescue operations, though reaching all stranded residents has proven difficult due to the extensive flooding.
Regional Crisis Extends Beyond Thailand
The flooding is part of a broader regional crisis affecting Southeast Asia. In Vietnam, the death toll has reached 98 people, while Indonesia has reported eight fatalities and Malaysia has evacuated over 19,000 residents. 'Climate change is making these extreme weather events more frequent and intense,' noted climate scientist Dr. Anongnart Fanwichit from Chulalongkorn University.
The regional impact highlights the vulnerability of Southeast Asian nations to climate-related disasters. Economic damage across the region is estimated to exceed $1.7 billion, with significant impacts on agriculture, infrastructure, and local economies.
Rescue Efforts Face Significant Challenges
Emergency crews are working around the clock to evacuate residents from flooded areas. In Hat Yai, the main government hospital became partially submerged, stranding patients including 30 newborn babies in the maternity ward. 'We're doing everything we can to reach those in need, but the conditions are extremely challenging,' said rescue team leader Captain Pongpat Yodmuang.
Authorities have installed 80 pumps to drain floodwaters and are diverting water to nearby lakes and the Gulf of Thailand. However, with more rain forecast in the coming days, officials warn that the situation remains critical and urge residents in low-lying areas to evacuate to designated shelters.
The Thai government has declared a state of emergency in Songkhla province and is coordinating with international aid organizations to provide additional support for the millions affected by this catastrophic flooding event.
