BANGKOK: The Malaysian Consulate in Southern Thailand has advised Malaysians to postpone travel plans to the region as heavy rainfall has triggered widespread flooding in several areas.
Malaysian Consul General in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, urged Malaysians to exercise caution if they must travel to Southern Thailand during this period.
"Continuous heavy rain over the past few days has led to severe flooding, forcing the evacuation of thousands across southern provinces in Thailand," he said in a statement on Thursday.
Ahmad Fahmi also advised Malaysians currently in Southern Thailand to remain vigilant, monitor weather updates, and follow announcements and advice from local authorities.
"Malaysians in Southern Thailand should prioritise their safety and look out for one another. Those in need of consular assistance can contact the officer on duty at +6693-6570707," he added.
Meanwhile, Thailand's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) reported on Thursday that ongoing floods in seven southern provinces have displaced 136,219 households across 50 districts, 321 sub-districts, and 1,884 villages.
The affected provinces are Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, and Satun.
The DDPM has mobilised operational teams and disaster response equipment, including water pumps, long-range pumping vehicles, evacuation vehicles, portable water production units, boats, and a rescue helicopter, to support rescue and evacuation efforts.
Additionally, the "Guardian Team" – a group of volunteers – is on the ground assisting affected communities, while local DDPM offices work closely with provincial and local authorities to deliver immediate relief.
The DDPM added that officials are assessing damages to facilitate financial aid distribution in accordance with relevant ministry regulations.-- BERNAMA