Once-in-300-year rain leaves Thai city flooded and maternity hospital blocked

2025-11-25 08:10:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

An extreme storm, estimated to be a once-in-300-year event, has hit southern Thailand, causing the worst flooding in decades and extensive damage in several provinces. The city of Hat Yai, one of the region's major transport and trade hubs, was hit hardest, recording levels of rainfall not seen in three centuries.

According to the Ministry of Public Health, at least 19 people have died as a result of electrocution and flood-related incidents. Meanwhile, over 127,000 families in nine provinces have been affected by the situation, while some areas have recorded up to 400 mm of accumulated rain.

Hat Yai hospital surrounded by water

In Hat Yai city, water levels have reached up to 2.5 meters, flooding homes and blocking main roads. The situation is also dramatic at Hat Yai Hospital, where water and electricity supplies have been partially cut off since Monday.

There are 30 newborns in the neonatal ward, while their parents cannot reach the hospital due to transport congestion. Nurse Fasiya Fatonni shared a view of the ward, where only a single lamp illuminates the room, while portable fans keep the babies cool in their cradles.

The ward is on the third floor, which is thought to be safe, but staff are concerned as water has started to spread to the second floor of the building. Around 500 people, including 200 patients, are currently trapped inside the hospital.

Authorities in a race against time

The Royal Irrigation Department said it was working with various agencies to assist with evacuations, distribution of supplies and efforts to lower water levels. Dozens of pumps have been deployed to divert water towards Songkhla Lake and the Gulf of Thailand.

Although flooding is expected to gradually ease once the rains stop, authorities remain on high alert for low-lying areas.

Floods also affect neighboring countries

Intense storms have also caused problems outside Thailand.

In Malaysia, over 15,000 people have been sheltered in emergency centers, although no deaths have been reported.

Meanwhile in central Vietnam, floods and landslides have killed 91 people and left 1.1 million households without electricity./ CNA