Southern Thailand hit by floods, train services disrupted

Thai officials said floods caused by intense rainfall have affected tens of thousands of people in the country's deep south, with some roads and railway lines forced to close.

At least a dozen schools in the provinces of Yala and Narathiwat have also closed. More than seven boats have sunk in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea since December 22.

Authorities have warned residents to be ready to evacuate if the floods worsen. Meanwhile, heavy torrential rains have caused flood inundate houses and public facilities in Lhoksukon in Indonesia's Aceh province, affecting more than 40,000 residents.

At least 5,000 people had to leave their houses and stay at temporary shelters, according to the country’s disaster mitigation agency.