Hat yai: Thai authorities have mobilized helicopters to rescue residents and tourists stranded by severe flooding in the southern region, where at least 13 people have died, and over 2.1 million have been affected since last week.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment deployed helicopters to Hat Yai, one of the most severely impacted areas in Songkhla province near the Malaysian border. The helicopters have been delivering emergency supplies and evacuating people from the area, as reported by Thai Enquirer.

Footage shows helicopters dropping aid onto the upper floors of buildings, with thousands of homes remaining submerged and residents forced onto rooftops. Authorities have temporarily suspended all shuttle services to and from Hat Yai Airport due to rising floodwaters, which have reached up to 2 meters in some locations.

The Thai navy announced the dispatch of a Disaster Relief fleet equipped with troops, armor, and medical teams to the region. The fleet will include the Disaster Relief Ship and the Royal Chakri Naruebet aircraft carrier, which is equipped with helicopters and boats for special operations.

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported that nine southern provinces near the Malaysian border have been affected by the floods. Approximately 7,000 foreign tourists, primarily from Malaysia and Singapore, are reportedly trapped in Hat Yai.

Flooding has disrupted mobile networks and electricity in various areas. The Chana Power Plant in Songkhla has temporarily ceased operations due to rising waters, though other power stations remain operational.

Across the border, Malaysian authorities reported that over 12,000 people have been impacted by floods in several northern states. Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim has ordered officials to provide necessary emergency and relief assistance, as reported by state-run news agency Bernama.