Thailand declares disaster zones after floods kill 14
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An aerial view of houses submerged by floodwaters in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, southern Thailand
Massive flooding, triggered by heavy torrential rainfalls, has inundated central regions of Thailand's south over the weekend, killing at least 14 people.
According to a statement released by the country’s Interior Ministry on Tuesday, the catastrophic flooding has also affected about 600,000 people from 88 districts, prompting authorities in 11 southern provinces to declare disaster zones.
Railway services have been suspended in the southern part of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province as the railroad has been covered by floodwaters.
The torrential rains also battered the popular tourist draws of Krabi and Koh Samui islands, suspending a number of flights and ferry services.
Rescue teams have already scattered in the inundated areas to provide victims with basic requirements and prevent further casualties.
Such heavy rainfalls are unusual for this time of year when most of the country usually enjoys a cooler and drier period. Thailand is now in the midst of a three-month long peak tourist season, which significantly fuels its economy.
EA
