SONGKHLA, THAILAND – A powerful tornado tore through a village in Ranot district, destroying homes and injuring residents in southern Thailand.
Village hit by sudden tornado
The storm struck Ban Khao in the Ranot subdistrict at around 16:30 on 24 November and raged for almost an hour. Witnesses reported a black cloud rolling over the village with immense force.
“Everything was shaking, roofs were flying through the air,”
said a shocked resident.
Trail of destruction and injuries
At least 10 houses were completely destroyed and countless others were damaged, with roof tiles scattered and walls collapsed. One person with a head laceration was taken immediately to Ranot Hospital, while several others suffered minor injuries. Rescue teams from the Ban Khao disaster prevention unit arrived quickly to provide assistance.
Massive emergency operation under way
Authorities in Ranot launched a large-scale operation and requested support from the 5th Infantry Division. Together, teams combed through affected areas, searched for additional injured residents and secured buildings at risk of collapse.
“We are doing everything to help the people,”
said an operations leader, adding that priority was being given to caring for those left homeless.
Temple becomes emergency shelter
For families who lost their homes, the Wat Makham Thao temple was quickly turned into a temporary shelter. There, storm victims found not only a roof over their heads but also psychological support, as the trauma of the event ran deep. Volunteers distributed food, water and blankets, showing strong community solidarity in this difficult period.
Experts warn of intensifying storms
Such tornadoes were rare but not unknown in southern Thailand, and climate researchers observed a worrying rise in extreme weather events.
“The intensity of such storms is increasing,”
said a meteorologist, warning that the region had to prepare for more frequent severe weather. Early warning systems were expected to trigger alerts more quickly in future, although residents often remained powerless against the destructive force of a tornado.
Cleanup, aid and long-term support
Cleanup work was expected to take several days as authorities considered state financial assistance for those affected. Many families had lost almost all their belongings and would require both short-term relief and long-term support. Across Thailand, donation campaigns for the storm victims were already under way as the country responded with solidarity.