Hat yai: The Secretary-General of the Royal Irrigation Department has called on the residents of Hat Yai to remain vigilant as the region braces for the heaviest rainfall in 300 years. The extreme weather conditions have resulted in water levels rising over two meters above the riverbank, leading to severe flooding in the area.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR), highlighted the unique challenges faced by Hat Yai District in Songkhla Province compared to other flooded regions in the north and central parts of the country. He explained that the water management system in Songkhla relies heavily on drainage canals, which have been overwhelmed by the accumulated rainfall in Sadao District.

The Khlong R.1 canal, capable of holding 1,200 cubic meters of water, has proven inadequate in handling the intense rainfall measuring 880 millimeters per hour. Continuous precipitation in the surrounding areas has further strained the canal system, prompting Mr. Danucha to recommend future enhancements, including dredging Khlong R.1 deeper and expanding Khlong U-Tapao, to better manage such unprecedented weather events.

The Prime Minister has stressed the urgency of rescue operations, urging the mobilization of all available personnel to assist those affected. He confirmed ongoing monitoring of the situation, as the Meteorological Department has forecasted continued heavy rain in Hat Yai District. Recent assessments show that water levels along the riverbanks have surged by an additional 2 meters and 20 centimeters between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, following the heavy downpour the previous night. Residents have been advised to stay alert and prepared for further developments.