Today, September 11, 2024, heavy rains caused the Kok River to overflow, flooding various areas in Chiang Rai. Key locations affected include the Nong Dan Bridge, the new Kok River Bridge, and the vicinity of Khua Phaya Mangrai Bridge. Water also reached the police flats at Mueang Chiang Rai Police Station in the city center.
Residents in the Koh Loy community are bracing for complete flooding and have been advised to move belongings to higher ground. Authorities have also urged the public to avoid using motorcycles and electric vehicles in affected areas due to the risks posed by flooding.
The northern region recorded exceptionally high rainfall over the past 24 hours, with Tham Luang Khun Nam Nang Non Subdistrict receiving over 235 mm, Mae Sao Subdistrict at 229 mm, and Ban Santikhiri monitoring station at 227 mm. Several other areas also reported rainfall exceeding 200 mm, raising concerns over potential flash floods and landslides.
In addition to Chiang Rai, the busy Sai Lom Joy market, near the Myanmar border in Mae Sai district, was submerged by the swollen Sai River, forcing its closure. Rescue operations in the region, particularly in Mae Sai, have been hampered by strong currents. Many residents remain stranded on rooftops, with emergency workers struggling to reach them.
As of this morning, more than 50 people are reported stranded, while monks and elderly residents at Wat Phasukkaram Temple are also calling for help after being trapped by floodwaters. The region continues to experience severe rainfall, with the situation remaining critical.