Stranded in the Flood: Surviving Hat Yai's Deluge

Amphorn Kaeophengkro, a resident of Hat Yai, Thailand, endured a massive flood impact as her family was trapped in their home for 48 hours. The disaster affected nine southern provinces, causing 162 fatalities. Allegations emerged against local authorities for inadequate warning and response to the unprecedented rainfall.

Floodwaters engulfed Amphorn Kaeophengkro's residence in Hat Yai, Thailand, forcing her family to seek refuge on the second floor. They survived on a precarious perch atop furniture that stayed above the waterline as heavy rains swept through southern Thailand last week.

Without adequate warning from authorities, residents were caught off guard by 335 mm of rain in two days—Hat Yai's highest in 300 years. As Amphorn and her family strategically perched on windowsills to evade the rising water, they could only think of safety amid chaotic conditions.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's government faces scrutiny over its flood response efforts. With power outages continuing, Hat Yai residents struggle with the aftermath while grappling with leadership changes caused by the crisis, revealing the fractured state of emergency management protocols in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)