145 people killed in Thailand floods as damage is revealed by receding water

BANGKOK (AP) Southern Thailand is facing severe flooding that has claimed at least 145 lives, officials reported Friday, as retreating waters reveal widespread destruction throughout the region.

Over 1.2 million households and roughly 3.6 million people have been impacted by floods caused by heavy rainfall across 12 southern provinces, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.

Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat stated at a Bangkok press briefing that eight provinces have reported fatalities, with Songkhla province hit hardest, recording at least 110 deaths. He noted that as floodwaters recede, search and rescue operations are becoming increasingly effective.

Songkhla province has seen a dramatic rise in the death toll following the subsiding of the floods. News outlets reported that rescue teams now have better access to previously submerged neighborhoods, recovering more victims, particularly in Hat Yai, the largest city in the southern region.

The disaster management office confirmed Friday morning that water levels have decreased across most areas, though some locations still experience significant flooding. The Meteorological Department indicated that rainfall has lessened but cautioned that thunderstorms could occur in certain areas.

The floods have caused major disruptions, leaving thousands stranded, blocking roads, and submerging low-rise buildings and vehicles. Recent photos and videos show damaged infrastructure, fallen power lines, household items, and debris piled along streets. Abandoned cars were overturned or stacked, carried away by strong flood currents.

Analysis: Southern Thailand Floods

The recent floods in southern Thailand have resulted in a tragic loss of at least 145 lives and affected over 3.6 million people. The scale of the disaster, spanning 12 provinces, highlights the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events and the challenges in disaster preparedness and response.

Songkhla province remains the hardest hit, with 110 reported deaths. As waters recede, authorities are gaining improved access to submerged areas, allowing rescue teams to recover additional victims and assess the full extent of damage. Hat Yai, the largest city in the region, has seen significant destruction to homes, infrastructure, and vehicles.

While water levels are decreasing across most areas, some locations still face ongoing flooding. Authorities warn that localized thunderstorms could further complicate recovery efforts. The disaster has left widespread disruption, with roads blocked, properties submerged, and essential services impaired, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated relief and reconstruction efforts.

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• Death toll from floods in Thailand reach 145 as receding water reveals widespread damage