Hat Yai, Song Khla –
The Kim Yong Market area in Hat Yai is now exposing extensive damage as floodwaters recede, revealing destroyed storefronts, debris, and piles of ruined goods along the streets. Residents and business owners spent Friday (Nov 28) clearing out damaged merchandise and calling for urgent support, saying they need water for cleaning and a restored power supply. Electricity in the area remains offline after systems were submerged under nearly six meters of water, slowing recovery efforts.
Public health concerns have also emerged as waste trapped during the flood begins to produce strong odors. Thick mud, garbage, and debris still cover surrounding roads, making travel difficult and hampering cleanup operations. Business owners warn that the prolonged shutdown of Kim Yong Market—one of Hat Yai’s major commercial centers—has disrupted economic activity and urge authorities to speed up utility repairs and waste-removal work.
Deputy Governor Sangkom Koetkor said all 16 districts in Songkhla have been affected, with Hat Yai sustaining the heaviest damage. He said rainfall has begun to ease, and Tropical Storm Kaito is not expected to impact the province, allowing water levels to steadily fall. Government officials have met to review relief support, including aid for displaced families and assistance for damaged property and livelihoods.
Sangkom later joined a meeting at the Flood Response Command Center, chaired by the Chief of Defence Forces, where agencies discussed additional compensation for deaths linked to the disaster. Utility teams have been instructed to inspect areas and restore service where safe, and the province is preparing neighborhood-level updates to help residents know when they can return home. Authorities also requested that the public keep rescue routes clear of parked vehicles.
Priority needs now include diapers, infant formula, sanitary pads, and basic cleaning tools, as many shops remain closed. The deputy governor said government units have been working since the first day of the crisis and continue coordinating through the command center at the 42nd Military Circle to strengthen relief operations. He urged residents to follow official guidance so crews can work without disruption.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
