The death toll from catastrophic flooding in southern Thailand has climbed to 145, with more than 100 of those fatalities occurring in the hardest-hit province of Songkhla, a government spokesperson announced on Friday

The disaster has impacted approximately 3.6 million people in 1.2 million households, primarily in eight provinces, with Songkhla hardest hit.

According to the Thai Ministry of Health, the number of fatalities rose from an initial 110 to 145, including patients who died in hospitals due to natural causes during the flooding. Authorities continue to evacuate residents and conduct search and rescue operations as water levels decrease, particularly in Hat Yai, the largest city in the south, where about 160,000 residents were relocated on November 24.

The Thai Navy has joined relief operations, providing humanitarian assistance and supporting the transportation of affected populations. Videos and photos from the area show submerged homes and vehicles, damaged roads, fallen power poles, and debris washed through streets by strong flood currents.

Officials noted that while floodwaters have receded in many regions, some areas remain at high levels, and the Meteorological Department warns of potential thunderstorms in the south. Authorities emphasize that continued vigilance is necessary as affected communities begin recovery and relief efforts intensify.

The floods, triggered by heavy rainfall across 12 southern provinces, have caused widespread disruption, rendering roads impassable and leaving thousands stranded. Relief and recovery teams are working to provide food, medical support, and emergency shelter to displaced residents. (ILKHA)