Southern provinces placed on alert for heavy rain until October 14

Today 15:04 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed all southern provinces to be on high alert for heavy rain and potential flooding from today until October 14.
Relevant agencies, including the Meteorological Department, are tasked with providing accurate and frequent weather forecasts, monitoring flood situations, and prioritizing aid for affected residents, particularly the elderly and sick.
Deputy Transport Minister Sanphet Bunyamanee will convene a video conference with governors of 14 southern provinces to formulate comprehensive plans for evacuation and drainage.
Compensation budgets are allocated for registered victims, though insurance payouts require governors to officially declare flood disaster zones.

PM's flood evacuation remarks spark criticism from animal lovers

Today 11:48 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged flood-hit residents to prioritize their own safety during evacuation, suggesting pets could cause disturbances at crowded shelters.
His remarks drew immediate criticism from animal lovers and celebrities, who argued pets are family members and should not be abandoned.
Critics called for the government to establish separate, pet-friendly areas within evacuation centers to accommodate animals.
A government spokesperson clarified the PM's intent was to prevent delayed evacuations, not to advocate abandoning pets, and stated designated pet areas would be considered.
Anutin later dismissed the controversy as 'drama,' declining further comment.