Severe floods caused by monsoon rains have killed more than 30 people and displaced tens of thousands in Malaysia and southern Thailand, with both countries preparing shelters and evacuation plans in anticipation of more heavy rain.

There are worries in Malaysia and neighbouring Thailand that disastrous flooding could get worse as more rain comes.

Torrential rains have caused widespread devastation, and forecasters predict more downpours starting on Tuesday.

The death toll from the worst floods in decades in southern Thailand and northern Malaysia climbed to at least 12 on Saturday, authorities said, as tens of thousands of people were evacuated due to rising water levels in the past three days.

The death toll from the disaster was seven: a one-year-old and two elderly men were reported to have drowned in Kelantan on Nov 30 and Dec 1 respectively, according to the Malay Mail. The National Disaster Management Agency had reported on Nov 30 that four men had died across Kelantan, Sarawak and Terengganu on Nov 27 and 28.

Floods in northern Malaysia and southern Thailand have claimed the lives of at least 12 people, and 135,000 individuals have been forced to leave their homes. Authorities warn that the number of casualties may increase.

Floods in northern Malaysia and southern Thailand have killed at least 12 people, and 135,000 residents have had to leave their homes. Authorities warn that the number of casualties may rise. In Malaysia,