A rare “once in 300 years” rainstorm has battered southern Thailand, leaving at least 19 people dead and submerging large parts of Hat Yai city under more than 2.5 metres of water.

Authorities said nine provinces remain inundated, with over 127,000 households affected after days of torrential rain, overflowing rivers and flash floods. Hat Yai, a key commercial hub in Songkhla province, recorded its heaviest rainfall in three centuries, according to the Royal Irrigation Department.

Among the worst-hit locations is Hat Yai Hospital, where floodwaters have cut electricity and water supplies. 

Access to the infant ward—housing around 30 newborn babies whose parents are unable to reach the building—has been severed. Nurses have resorted to working under dim light and using fans to keep the babies cool. With water now rising to the hospital’s second floor, staff have urged authorities to deliver drinking water and additional support.

Emergency workers continue rescue operations across the region, deploying boats and trucks to reach stranded residents. Officials are also installing pumps and propellers to redirect water into Songkhla Lake and the Gulf of Thailand, though they warn low-lying areas require “special vigilance.”

The downpours have also affected neighbouring countries. In Malaysia, more than 15,000 people have taken shelter, while central Vietnam has reported 91 deaths from flooding and landslides in the past week, with power disrupted to 1.1 million homes and businesses.

Authorities expect southern Thailand’s flood levels to ease once the rain subsides, but recovery efforts are likely to take days.

#BBC