PRESS RELEASE:
The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Relief Operations Center has issued an urgent warning for heavy rainfall in five southern provinces from December 13 to 14. Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla are identified as high-risk areas. Flash floods, runoff, and landslides are also a concern for Trang, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai, as the center’s director, has directed full preparedness. Disaster response units have been deployed, with 44 teams operating in Region 11 provinces and 712 units mobilized in Region 12. Emergency plans are in place, and evacuation shelters are ready to assist displaced residents.
The Meteorological Department forecasts rain to ease by December 18. However, water levels in major rivers like the Pattani, Saiburi, and Kolok are expected to peak between December 19 and 20. Pumping and drainage equipment has been installed to manage potential overflow and mitigate flood risks.
Efforts to restore critical services are underway. Telecommunication systems and healthcare facilities, including 135 previously flooded locations, are now operational. Public health services have resumed across the affected areas.
To address complaints about delays in financial relief, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation is expediting compensation payments. Measures are being taken to improve accessibility and ensure prompt assistance for affected residents.
The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.
