Deluge of Despair: Hat Yai Battles Unprecedented Floods

Hat Yai, Thailand, faced its worst flooding in 300 years after heavy rains, leading to the deaths of over 145 people. Locals criticize the government for inadequate warnings and responses. Over 16,000 residents evacuated, with damages extensive in infrastructure and homes. Assistance efforts are now underway.

When Jantarakarn Kaewjan went to bed in Thailand's southern city of Hat Yai last Friday, three days of relentless heavy rain had only resulted in minor waterlogging outside her apartment building.

However, by midnight, the rising waters reached her building, prompting her to move her motorcycle to a higher floor. By 9 a.m., the water had reached chest level, indicating the seriousness of the floods which have claimed over 145 lives across southern Thailand.

The floods have prompted criticism of local authorities, who are accused of insufficiently warning residents. The city's mayor admitted to mismanaging the crisis, as 16,000 residents evacuated amid extensive damages. Governmental aid has been approved to manage the aftermath of Thailand's deadliest floods in three centuries.

(With inputs from agencies.)