In late November and early December 2024, Malaysia and southern Thailand experienced devastating floods due to intense monsoon rains, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread displacement.
Fatalities: Over 30 people lost their lives—at least 6 in Malaysia and 25 in southern Thailand.
Displacement: Approximately 91,000 individuals in Malaysia and over 300,000 households in Thailand were affected, with many seeking refuge in government shelters.
Infrastructure and Economic Damage
Malaysia: The northeastern states of Kelantan and Terengganu were severely impacted, with damage to roads, homes, and public facilities. The Malaysian government estimated repair costs at around 1 billion ringgit (approximately $224 million).
Thailand: Southern provinces, including Pattani, Narathiwat, Songkhla, and Yala, faced extensive flooding, leading to the closure of schools and health facilities. The Thai government allocated 50 million baht (about $1.45 million) per province for relief efforts.
Authorities in both countries remained on high alert for further rainfall and potential flash floods. Emergency services were deployed to assist affected communities, and citizens were advised to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel to the impacted regions.
These floods underscore the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events in Southeast Asia, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures.