Chiang Rai Battles Severe Flooding Affecting Over 4,400 Households
Chiang Rai, Thailand – July 25, 2025
Persistent heavy rainfall has triggered widespread flooding across Chiang Rai province, impacting over 4,400 households and causing significant disruptions in multiple districts. The deluge, driven by a lingering low-pressure system, has inundated homes, agricultural lands, and critical infrastructure, prompting urgent response measures from local authorities and disaster relief teams.
Affected Areas and Impact
The flooding has hit several districts, including Phaya Mengrai, Wiang Chai, Chiang Saen, and Thoeng, with rural and urban areas alike grappling with rising waters. Villages along the Mae Pao and Kok rivers have been particularly hard-hit, with floodwaters submerging roads, schools, and local businesses. Over 300 hectares of farmland, primarily rice and fruit orchards, have been damaged, threatening the livelihoods of local farmers.
In Phaya Mengrai’s Tadkhwan sub-district, residents reported water levels rising rapidly, turning village roads into impassable streams. Local schools have suspended classes, and temporary shelters have been established to house displaced families. Health officials have also raised concerns about waterborne diseases, with two public health centers partially affected by the floods.
Response and Relief Efforts
The Chiang Rai Provincial Disaster Response Unit has mobilized emergency teams to distribute food, clean water, and medical supplies to affected communities. Military units have been deployed to assist with evacuations, using boats to reach stranded residents in low-lying areas. The provincial government has set up 24/7 monitoring stations to track river levels and rainfall, issuing warnings for potential flash floods and landslides in hilly regions.
Deputy Governor Sarawut Thongchai stated, “Our priority is ensuring the safety of residents and providing immediate relief. We’re coordinating with national agencies to expedite aid and assess long-term recovery needs.” Drones are being utilized to survey hard-to-reach areas, helping authorities map the extent of the damage.
Community Resilience and Challenges
Local communities have shown resilience, with volunteers joining efforts to reinforce flood barriers and clear debris. However, challenges remain, as continuous rainfall forecasts threaten to prolong the crisis. Small business owners, like 42-year-old fruit vendor Amara Srisuk, expressed concern: “My shop is underwater, and I don’t know how long it will take to recover. We need more than just immediate aid—we need help rebuilding.”
Looking Ahead
Meteorologists warn that the region could face additional rainfall over the next few days, potentially exacerbating the situation. The government has urged residents in at-risk areas to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders. Long-term, officials are discussing infrastructure improvements, such as enhanced drainage systems and riverbank reinforcements, to mitigate future flooding risks.
As Chiang Rai navigates this crisis, the strength of its communities and the swift response of authorities offer hope, but the road to recovery remains steep for thousands of affected households.