Parts of Southeast Asia are reeling from catastrophic flooding, with Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia among the worst-hit countries. In Thailand, at least 33 people have died as record rains submerge cities, destroy homes, and cut off thousands from help. Authorities have deployed military ships, helicopters, and rescue teams to aid those stranded.
The southern city of Hat Yai, a business hub near Malaysia, experienced its heaviest rainfall in 300 years, receiving 335mm in just one day. Photos and videos show streets, vehicles, and houses submerged, with residents desperately waiting for evacuation on rooftops.
Across the region, floods have taken a heavy toll: Vietnam has recorded 98 deaths, Malaysia has evacuated over 19,000 people, and in North Sumatra, Indonesia, 19 have died with several others buried under landslides.
In Thailand, more than 2 million people have been affected, but only 13,000 have been moved to shelters. The Thai military is coordinating relief efforts, deploying an aircraft carrier, 14 boats, field kitchens capable of preparing 3,000 meals daily, high-clearance trucks, and jet skis. Medical teams aboard the aircraft carrier can convert it into a floating hospital if needed. Songkhla province, home to Hat Yai, has been declared a disaster zone, unlocking emergency relief funds.
Rescue groups like Matchima Rescue Center have reported thousands of urgent calls for help in the last three days, with residents trapped in rising waters and struggling for food and water. Social media posts have highlighted the desperation, including viral clips showing children clinging to power lines to escape floodwaters.
In Malaysia, 126 evacuation centres have been set up in northern states such as Kelantan and Perlis, where rescue teams wade through knee-deep waters to reach stranded communities.
While seasonal rains are typical for this period in Southeast Asia, this year’s extreme deluge has surpassed records, leaving large swathes of the region in crisis.
