An aerial view captured by the volunteer drone team DSAR – Drone Search and Rescue Strike Team, representatives of the northern-region rescue volunteers, who deployed drone technology to survey the damage from the major flooding in southern Thailand, in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. The situation remains critical, and many residents are still trapped inside their homes awaiting rescue.
Last night, rescue teams continued to operate thermal-imaging drones—previously used by Chiang Mai’s wildfire response team—to detect heat signatures and assist people in the affected areas, despite unfavorable weather conditions, darkness, and continuous rainfall.
Today, the Chiang Mai rescue personnel who were deployed to support operations continue their duties and aid efforts without pause, even though there were reports that some officers had been fired upon by an individual with a weapon.
Most recently, the Facebook page of Maejo Rescue Unit, another team assisting flood victims, posted a message saying:
“We are not withdrawing yet. But we promise to take good care of ourselves, because we still have to return to Chiang Mai to eat some mookata (Thai BBQ).
Hat Yai is not full of bad people like the news might suggest. The incident involved only some individuals. We understand this very well—very, very well. And we believe that almost everyone in Hat Yai disapproves of what those individuals did.”
The post continued:
“There are still thousands of people waiting for help—kind-hearted people who warmly welcome rescue teams from all over the country. Assistance cannot wait. Please don’t let this one negative incident shape your whole view of Hat Yai.
We faced only a small, unfortunate event—nothing that can erase the determination that drove us over 1,700 km to get here. We believe that rescue workers nationwide are fully committed, and will not let something like this discourage them.
Thank you sincerely for all your concern. We will continue helping the people of Hat Yai and take extra precautions regarding those with ill intent. Thank you.”
The post spread across social media, drawing a large outpouring of encouragement. Many people expressed their hopes that all rescue personnel remain safe as they carry out their duties, so they may eventually return to Chiang Mai once the situation improves.
