Hat Yai, Songkhla –
The flood situation in Hat Yai has escalated into a full-scale crisis, prompting Songkhla Governor Rutsat Chidchu to order the immediate evacuation of residents from all high-risk areas. Temporary shelters have been activated across the district, with military and volunteer forces mobilized to provide urgent assistance.
After water levels briefly receded yesterday morning, some residents had begun returning home to clean their properties. However, by 3 a.m. today, a surge of floodwaters from Sadao district swept into Hat Yai through the R.1 and U-Taphao canals. The volume of water has continued to rise, surpassing previous flood levels.
To respond to the worsening conditions, an emergency meeting was convened this morning at the 42nd Military Circle Command Center. Authorities ordered the evacuation of all vulnerable communities to designated shelters. The main shelter at Prince of Songkla University’s auditorium can accommodate approximately 5,000 people, while a secondary shelter at Songkhla Rajabhat University has capacity for 2,000. Additional facilities have been prepared by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the Royal Thai Navy, and other agencies.
Governor Rutsat stressed that evacuation is critical, warning that water levels are expected to peak around 4 p.m. today. More than 100 military vehicles and boats have been deployed across Hat Yai, supported by naval units and the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, to ensure residents are safely relocated and provided with essential supplies.
Officials noted that drainage could improve if rainfall subsides and sea tides remain low, allowing floodwaters from the R.1 canal to flow more rapidly into the Gulf of Thailand. In the meantime, residents requiring food, drinking water, or other necessities are urged to contact the 42nd Military Circle Command Center directly. Local leaders, municipal council members, and community representatives have been asked to coordinate lists of stranded residents to guarantee comprehensive relief coverage.
Governor Rutsat concluded with a firm appeal:
“I urge all residents in risk zones to evacuate immediately. This is the only way to ensure effective management and timely assistance during this emergency.”
