Cabinet declares Songkhla a disaster zone as floods kill 13 and Hat Yai faces worsening crisis

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on Tuesday signed a declaration placing Songkhla under a state of emergency, following catastrophic floods that have devastated the province, killing at least 13 people and displacing thousands.

According to Nation Thailand, the declaration—approved by the Cabinet—cites extensive damage to both public and private property and significant threats to residents’ safety. The decree, issued under the Emergency Decree Act, remains in effect from 25 November 2025 to 25 February 2026.

The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Ukrit Boontanont, has been formally appointed as the lead official in charge of managing the emergency response.

Government mobilises emergency authority and resources

Following the Cabinet decision, Prime Minister Anutin told reporters, “Right now, the priority is to manage the water drainage as quickly as possible. If no more rain falls, the water should be drained faster. The most important thing now is to urgently assist the people in the affected areas.”

He added that the armed forces, together with relevant agencies, are operating at full capacity. Relief efforts include the delivery of food, essential supplies, and transport support, and electricity is being restored to hospitals and critical infrastructure.

“There is no delay, no obstruction. We are working at full capacity to save lives first,” Anutin said, adding that a spokesperson committee will be appointed to ensure public access to accurate updates until the situation is resolved.

He further stated, “There is no power struggle; everyone is working together to help the people. Let’s not bring politics into this.”

Widespread damage and relief operations underway

According to a report by the Bangkok Post, all 16 districts in Songkhla have been affected, with Hat Yai city facing the most severe flooding. The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported that approximately two million people across the southern region have been affected, including over 635,000 people in Songkhla alone.

Defence Forces Chief Gen Ukrit Boontanont is overseeing the national response, supported by the Royal Thai Navy and regional agencies. Relief efforts include the deployment of high-clearance vehicles, boats, mobile kitchens, and helicopters.

Governor Rattasart Chidchu coordinates on the ground

Songkhla Governor Rattasart Chidchu (รัฐศาสตร์ ชิดชู) chaired an emergency meeting at the 42nd Military Circle in Hat Yai on Tuesday, supported by senior military officers and disaster agency leaders.

In a statement from the Songkhla Public Relations Office, the governor ordered that flood relief be divided into two geographic zones for more efficient response:

• Zone 1 (west of the railway line): Managed by the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Centre Region 12, covering areas including District 8, Khuan Lang, Bang Faep, and Hat Yai Airport

• Zone 2 (east of the railway line): Led by the 42nd Military Circle’s disaster centre, covering Hat Yai Nai, Niphat Uthit Road, Khlong Hae, Hat Yai Hospital, and Kho Hong

These operations are being supported by over 80 water pumps, 44 flat-bottom boats, 21 inflatable boats, 83 high-clearance trucks, and air assets.

Three primary shelters have been opened to house over 3,200 evacuees so far:

• Prince of Songkla University: Capacity 5,000

• Songkhla Rajabhat University: Capacity 2,000

• Khlong Rian Municipal School 4: Capacity 500

Critical conditions in Hat Yai

Water levels in Hat Yai reached 1.25 to 1.45 metres by early Tuesday, with many areas in the business district submerged. Despite ongoing drainage into the sea via the R.1 canal, rainfall and runoff from Sadao continue to exceed capacity.

The province is maintaining 24-hour operations. Emergency alerts have been sent to residents via AIS, True and NT cell networks, and the DDPM hotline remains active for assistance.

Weather warnings and outlook

The Southern Meteorological Centre has warned that although rain may ease from Wednesday, the volume of existing floodwater remains a threat. Continued monitoring is underway in districts including Hat Yai, Rattaphum, Na Mom, Sadao, Chana, Thepha, Na Thawi, Saba Yoi, and Sathing Phra.

Authorities remain on alert for flash floods, landslides, and runoff, particularly in low-lying and hillside areas.