Thai authorities have deployed helicopters to rescue residents and tourists stranded by severe flooding in the country’s southern region, where at least 13 people have died and more than 2.1 million have been affected since last week, local media reported on Tuesday (November 26).

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment sent helicopters to Hat Yai one of the worst-hit areas in Songkhla province near the Malaysian border to deliver emergency supplies and evacuate people, Thai Enquirer reported. Around 7,000 foreign tourists, mostly from Malaysia and Singapore, were reported trapped in Hat Yai. Video footage showed helicopters dropping aid onto upper floors of buildings as thousands of homes remained submerged, forcing residents onto rooftops, according to ANKARA. Authorities temporarily suspended all shuttle services to and from Hat Yai Airport as floodwaters rose, reaching as high as 2 meters (6.6 feet) in some areas.

rescue team working 

In response to the escalating crisis across the nine southern provinces hit by the deluge, the Thai navy announced Tuesday it was dispatching a Disaster Relief fleet with troops, armor, and medical teams to the region. The naval statement specified that the Disaster Relief Ship will be accompanied by the Royal Chakri Naruebet aircraft carrier, which is equipped with two helicopters and specialized operations boats.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation confirmed that nine southern provinces near the Malaysian border have been significantly affected. The flooding has also disrupted critical infrastructure, including mobile networks and electricity in several areas. The Chana Power Plant in Songkhla temporarily halted operations due to rising water, though officials noted other power stations remain functional.

The crisis has extended across the border, with Malaysian authorities reporting that more than 12,000 people were affected by floods in several northern states. On Tuesday, Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim ordered officials to provide all necessary emergency and relief assistance, according to state-run news agency Bernama.

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