Thailand is facing some of its worst flooding in a generation, with severe impacts across the southern provinces. Schools in the 12 most affected provinces have been shut indefinitely, and communities are struggling with rising floodwaters, power outages, and displacement. Save the Children has warned that children are at serious risk of electrocution from downed power lines, drowning in surging waters, and separation from their families.
As of 25 November, around 400,000 children have been affected by the floods, with at least three children reported killed and another missing. Thousands more have been displaced or are without electricity. The flooding has been driven by an unusually strong and prolonged rainy season, with continuous rainfall causing water levels to rise further across southern Thailand.
Hat Yai, a major business hub and tourist destination near the Malaysia border, has been declared a disaster zone, with residents ordered to evacuate as floodwaters reached the roofs of buildings. Thailand, like many of its regional neighbors, is experiencing more frequent and severe floods and extreme weather events, including drought, which experts attribute in part to climate change.
Khem Krairit, Director of Programmes and Humanitarian at Save the Children Thailand, emphasized that nearly half a million children are at risk, and close to two million people are affected overall. He highlighted that children face heightened risks during crises, including missing school, separation from family, electrical hazards, and drowning. He called on responders to prioritize child safety, protection, and access to essential assistance.
Save the Children is actively assessing needs in the affected areas and has pre-positioned emergency supplies, including baby kits and children’s kits, ready for rapid deployment. The organization has been working in Thailand since 1979, focusing on child protection, education, child rights, livelihoods, and humanitarian response for children and youth.
