Thailand is stepping into one of its toughest battles against nature as relentless rains continue to hammer the country’s southern region, intensifying the worst flooding seen in years. With 13 lives already lost and rescue operations increasingly strained, the government is now preparing a major response: deploying an aircraft carrier loaded with relief supplies, medical teams, and emergency support.
Floodwaters reaching up to 2 metres have swept across nine provinces in Thailand and eight states in neighbouring Malaysia, echoing the devastation last year’s monsoon brought when 12 people were killed. Entire communities are struggling as submerged roads, power cuts, and dangerous currents hinder evacuation efforts.
The Royal Thai Navy announced that the aircraft carrier Chakri Naruebet, accompanied by 14 boats, helicopters, doctors, and mobile kitchens capable of delivering 3,000 meals daily, is ready for deployment. The carrier will not only deliver essential supplies but may also serve as a floating hospital to support overwhelmed medical response teams.
Authorities estimate that 1.9 million people have been affected, with the meteorology agency warning of continued heavy downpours and flash floods. Waves of over 3 metres have prompted warnings for small boats to remain ashore.
On the ground, desperation is growing.
Volunteer groups are receiving thousands of calls daily from families pleading for food, rescue, or evacuation. Hat Yai, Thailand’s fifth-largest city and a major rubber trading hub, has been one of the hardest hit. The city recorded a staggering 335 mm of rain in a single day—its highest in 300 years. Streets have transformed into muddy rivers, cars lie underwater, and emergency workers navigate currents to reach stranded residents.
Stories emerging on social media reflect the grim reality.
“We are five people and a small child without rice and water,” wrote one resident, explaining that phone reception had collapsed as floodwaters rapidly rose.
Another posted, “Water is on the second floor now… Pray. Please help.”
Malaysia, too, is enduring its share of the crisis, with more than 18,500 people seeking refuge in evacuation centres. Across Perlis and Kelantan, rescue teams have been tirelessly moving house to house, helping elderly residents and families reach safety.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged Malaysians to prioritise safety and follow evacuation orders, offering prayers and support to those affected. Meanwhile, the disaster threatens to disrupt Thailand’s important rubber industry, with early estimates suggesting output could drop by more than 10,000 tons.
This is a moment that demands unity, action, and deep compassion. Behind every statistic is a family waiting for rescue, a child hoping for safety, a community fighting to recover. As relief operations expand, the world is reminded once again how fragile life becomes in the face of nature—and how powerful collective humanity is when we choose to respond.
When the waters rise, so must we.
