CRBC News
Culture
Society
Security
Health
Conflict
Science
Technology
Politics
Environment
Lifestyle
Economy

Thai Prime Minister Apologizes as Southern Floods Kill 162; Relief and Compensation Announced

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul apologized after severe flooding in 12 southern provinces killed at least 162 people and affected about 3.8 million residents. Songkhla province reported the majority of fatalities, with Hat Yai especially hard hit. The government will begin compensation payments next week and offer debt suspensions and short-term interest-free loans, while the king has pledged 100 million baht to a damaged hospital and funeral support for victims.

04:05 PM, 11/29/2025Society
Thai Prime Minister Apologizes as Southern Floods Kill 162; Relief and Compensation Announced

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has acknowledged shortcomings in the government's response to devastating floods in the country's south, as the death toll rose to 162. The floods — triggered by heavy rains last weekend — have caused widespread destruction across 12 provinces.

Scope of the disaster: The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reports that more than 1.4 million households — roughly 3.8 million people — have been affected. Officials confirmed 162 fatalities across eight provinces, with Songkhla province accounting for at least 126 of those deaths. Hat Yai, Songkhla's largest city, was among the hardest hit.

Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said water levels began to recede across the affected provinces on Saturday morning. Video and on-the-ground reports show residents returning to previously submerged homes to assess damage, with furniture and personal belongings strewn across floors.

Government response and relief measures: Prime Minister Anutin apologized during visits to affected communities, saying the government "was unable to take care and protect them." He announced that compensation payments will begin next week and outlined additional relief measures, including suspension of debt payments and short-term, interest-free loans to help businesses and homeowners repair damage.

Rescue teams continuing search-and-recovery operations have recovered additional bodies as they gain access to areas that were previously submerged. Thousands were left stranded, roads were rendered impassable, and low-rise buildings and vehicles were submerged during the worst of the flooding.

Royal support: Siripong said King Maha Vajiralongkorn will donate 100 million baht (about $3.11 million) to Hat Yai Hospital, which sustained heavy flood damage, and that the monarchy will provide royal support for the funerals of victims who died in the floods.

Authorities continue relief and recovery operations, focusing on restoring services, clearing debris, and providing humanitarian assistance to displaced families. Officials urge residents in affected areas to follow safety guidance as floodwaters recede and recovery work begins.

Similar Articles

Trending