BANGKOK, Nov. 24 -- Security forces and emergency teams have been ordered to throw everything they have into protecting Hat Yai, with severe flooding overwhelming large parts of the city.

The report, first carried by the Bangkok Post, said the rising waters have trapped residents across Songkhla - and stranded scores of Malaysian tourists in Hat Yai's main commercial area before conditions began easing in some pockets.

Military units, disaster agencies and local authorities are working around the clock to evacuate people from flooded homes as water levels continue to climb.

Soldiers from the Fourth Army Region have also been told to help move patients from inundated hospitals and deliver essential supplies to those stuck indoors.

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