News
November 30, 2025
They were expecting their usual floods. What hit was a one-in-300-year monster
The southern Thailand city of Hat Yai is used to flooding. But resident Krongkarn Jantarasavad says what ended up happening was inconceivable.
**Hat Yai Grapples with Unprecedented Flooding: A "One-in-300-Year Monster"**
Hat Yai, a city in southern Thailand accustomed to seasonal flooding, is reeling from a deluge far beyond anything its residents have ever experienced. While the city is no stranger to rising waters, the recent event has been described as a catastrophic "one-in-300-year monster" by locals, leaving communities devastated and struggling to recover.
Krongkarn Jantarasavad, a resident of Hat Yai, vividly recalls the harrowing experience. Speaking about the disaster, she explained that although residents were prepared for the usual flooding, what unfolded was truly inconceivable. The sheer volume of water and the speed at which it rose caught many off guard, transforming familiar streets into raging rivers.
The impact on the city has been significant. Homes have been inundated, businesses shuttered, and infrastructure severely damaged. Many residents were forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The floodwaters have disrupted essential services, including access to clean water and electricity, compounding the challenges faced by those affected.
While the exact cause of the unprecedented flooding is still under investigation, initial reports suggest a combination of factors may have contributed to the disaster. Unusually heavy rainfall over an extended period, coupled with existing drainage limitations, likely overwhelmed the city's infrastructure.
The focus now is on providing immediate relief to those affected and beginning the long and arduous process of recovery. Aid organizations and government agencies are working to distribute food, water, and medical supplies to those in need. Efforts are also underway to assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive plan for rebuilding.
The devastating floods serve as a stark reminder of the increasing vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events. As climate change continues to intensify, it is crucial to invest in infrastructure improvements, implement effective disaster preparedness strategies, and promote sustainable land management practices to mitigate the impact of future floods and protect vulnerable populations. The resilience of the people of Hat Yai is being tested, but their determination to rebuild their lives and community remains unwavering.
Hat Yai, a city in southern Thailand accustomed to seasonal flooding, is reeling from a deluge far beyond anything its residents have ever experienced. While the city is no stranger to rising waters, the recent event has been described as a catastrophic "one-in-300-year monster" by locals, leaving communities devastated and struggling to recover.
Krongkarn Jantarasavad, a resident of Hat Yai, vividly recalls the harrowing experience. Speaking about the disaster, she explained that although residents were prepared for the usual flooding, what unfolded was truly inconceivable. The sheer volume of water and the speed at which it rose caught many off guard, transforming familiar streets into raging rivers.
The impact on the city has been significant. Homes have been inundated, businesses shuttered, and infrastructure severely damaged. Many residents were forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The floodwaters have disrupted essential services, including access to clean water and electricity, compounding the challenges faced by those affected.
While the exact cause of the unprecedented flooding is still under investigation, initial reports suggest a combination of factors may have contributed to the disaster. Unusually heavy rainfall over an extended period, coupled with existing drainage limitations, likely overwhelmed the city's infrastructure.
The focus now is on providing immediate relief to those affected and beginning the long and arduous process of recovery. Aid organizations and government agencies are working to distribute food, water, and medical supplies to those in need. Efforts are also underway to assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive plan for rebuilding.
The devastating floods serve as a stark reminder of the increasing vulnerability of communities to extreme weather events. As climate change continues to intensify, it is crucial to invest in infrastructure improvements, implement effective disaster preparedness strategies, and promote sustainable land management practices to mitigate the impact of future floods and protect vulnerable populations. The resilience of the people of Hat Yai is being tested, but their determination to rebuild their lives and community remains unwavering.
Category:
World