Deputy PM Takes Command in Hat Yai Flood Crisis

SONGKHLA, Nov 25 (TNA) - Deputy Prime Minister Capt. Thamanat Prompow has established a Central Command Center in Hat Yai to combat severe flooding, ordering a full military mobilization and vowing to remain in the area until the crisis is resolved.

Due to the unprecedented nature of the "great flood" affecting lives and property, the Cabinet approved the declaration of a State of Emergency in Songkhla Province, effective today until February 25, 2026. Under the decree, the Supreme Commander of the Royal Thai Armed Forces has been appointed as the Head of Responsibility for resolving the crisis.

Thamanat who is also Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives confirmed all branches of the armed forces are deployed. Urgent priorities include restoring power at hospitals treating emergency patients and evacuating residents. Rescue efforts are challenged by extremely strong currents—a problem being addressed by deploying specialized high-horsepower vessels and Navy SEAL boats, as standard rescue boats are insufficient.

The DPM announced a new operational plan, splitting the area into East and West zones along the railway line for clearer accountability. The 4th Army Region Commander will oversee food distribution. In a critical direct action, the DPM ordered a Ministry of Agriculture helicopter to perform an emergency medical evacuation of two elderly kidney failure patients who had been cut off for over five days without dialysis.

DPM Thamanat confirmed efforts are underway to fix communication failures caused by power outages and strong currents. He cited the Meteorological Department forecast that today will be the final day of heavy rain, allowing the Royal Irrigation Department to accelerate drainage with all sluice gates open. He expects the situation to begin easing within three days. -819 (TNA)