Bangkok, November 29, 2024 -- Severe floods caused by monsoon rains in southern Thailand have affected over 267,000 people, with 29% of them being children. Over 70 schools have been closed indefinitely, leaving many children unable to attend school, in stressful situations, and in some cases, separated from their families. Save the Children Thailand has deployed staff to affected areas to coordinate with local authorities, gather preliminary data, and prepare for a rapid needs assessment to provide appropriate support as quickly as possible. 

Save the Children estimates that over 267,000 people have been affected by the monsoon, with more than 77,000 of them, or approximately 29%, being children. Many children are facing disruptions to their education, as over 70 schools in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces have been closed indefinitely. Thousands of children are forced to stay away from school, with no clear timeline for their return. At the same time, many children are experiencing stress, some without parental care, and are exposed to additional risks, including dangers from playing in floodwaters, which may be contaminated with pollutants or pose risks of electric shocks. 

Save the Children advises parents and communities to closely monitor and care for children during the flood crisis to ensure their safety and well-being. Children should not be allowed to play in floodwaters under any circumstances, as the water may be contaminated with harmful substances, chemicals, or electricity, posing serious hazards. For children unable to attend school, parents should strive to create a sense of security even in resource-limited circumstances. This can include simple activities such as storytelling, word-guessing games, or rhyming games to help reduce stress and make the passage of time less daunting. Providing children with a sense of safety and reassurance that their family remains together is critical during uncertain times. 

In cases where children become separated from their families, parents or guardians are advised to immediately report to local authorities or shelters and provide essential information, such as photos of the child, names, and contact details, to facilitate tracking and reunification. After the floods recede, homes should be thoroughly inspected to ensure safety, including electrical and water systems, and all items children come into contact with, such as toys and clothing, should be properly sanitized to prevent the spread of diseases. 

Guillaume Rachou, Executive Director of Save the Children Thailand, said, “While it was anticipated that severe flooding in the southern region would occur in December, the earlier-than-expected onset of flooding by a full month serves as a stark reminder of the escalating impacts of climate change. This unusual timing highlights the urgent need to protect children, especially those separated from their families. We urge all sectors to prioritize the safety and well-being of children and young people affected by this crisis. Our own staff have also been directly impacted by the floods, with some having to evacuate their homes and others remaining in affected areas. We are preparing a rapid needs assessment to identify and provide urgent assistance to those most in need, drawing on our extensive experience in responding to disasters in southern Thailand annually, as well as the recent floods in northern Thailand this past July. We remain committed to supporting the most vulnerable communities during this critical time.” 

Save the Children has responded to the flood situation in southern Thailand by coordinating with local agencies and partners to gather data and assess the basic needs of affected populations. Hygiene kits for children and infants are ready to be distributed, and the organization continues to closely monitor the situation, aiming to provide timely and appropriate support to ensure that every child is protected and cared for during this difficult time. Donation is open to help children affected by the floods receive appropriate care and assistance and  can be made via https://savethechildren.or.th/.