NARATHIWAT: Low-lying areas in seven districts of Narathiwat have been hit by flash floods triggered by storm runoff from the mountains, local authorities said.
Parts of Sukhirin, Waeng, Sungai Kolok, Cho Airong, Rangae, Rueso and Si Sakhon districts are affected, with residents evacuating to higher ground, along with their personal belongings, vehicles and farm animals.
Guards are being deployed around-the-clock to prevent theft.
Some villages are reported cut off and their food and water supplies running low. Authorities were planning to distribute necessities in the afternoon.
A school in Ban Bo Thong in Rangae district, has been closed until further notice after the grounds came under flooding 80cm deep. Several roads were under 50cm water and impassible to small vehicles.
The water level in three main rivers - Sungai Kolok, Sai Buri and Bang Nara - was rising steadily as the rain continued, raising fears the flooding could intensify.
In nearby Trang province, the governor has set up a flood watch centre in Muang district.
The municipal area is under threat after water from the flooded district of Na Yong flowed into a canal linked with the municipal area in Muang district, parts of which have already been inundated.
Eight districts have been hit by floods caused by heavy seasonal rain.
The Meteorological Department has warned of more heavy rain in the southern region through to Thursday, with more flooding.
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