Bangkok, Nov 29 (V7N) — Flooding in southern Thailand has claimed at least 145 lives, officials reported Friday, as receding waters reveal widespread devastation across the region.

More than 1.2 million households and 3.6 million people in 12 southern provinces have been affected by heavy rains, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.

Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said at a news conference in Bangkok that eight provinces have recorded fatalities, with Songkhla province reporting the highest toll of at least 110 deaths. He noted that search and rescue operations have improved as floodwaters gradually recede.

In Songkhla, the death toll rose sharply after waters began to subside. Rescuers gained better access to previously submerged residential areas, recovering more bodies, particularly in Hat Yai, the largest city in the south.

The disaster department reported Friday morning that while water levels have decreased in most areas, some locations remain severely flooded. The Meteorological Department added that rainfall has lessened across the south, though thunderstorms are still possible in certain areas.

The floods caused massive disruption, leaving thousands stranded, blocking roads, and submerging low-rise buildings and vehicles.

Videos and photos from affected areas show damaged roads, fallen power poles, debris, and household items washed away by floodwaters. Abandoned vehicles were overturned or stacked atop each other, carried off by strong currents.

Authorities continue relief and rescue operations, providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to the affected communities while monitoring rising water levels in remaining high-risk areas.

END/WD/SMA/