Northern Thailand is facing severe flooding as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across multiple provinces, particularly in Chiang Rai. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has issued a flood alert for several provinces, especially in the North and Northeast regions, with anticipated risks over the next 24 hours. Residents are urged to be vigilant as flash floods, landslides, and riverbank overflows threaten various districts.
Tragic Losses and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
In Chiang Rai, the situation has escalated into a crisis, with flooding claiming two lives and leaving 20 people trapped in a convenience store. The unrelenting downpours have also submerged 15,000 rai of farmland, primarily rice fields. The first victim, a 77-year-old man from Pong Noi village in Doi Luang district, drowned while fishing in a flooded rice field. A second victim, a 39-year-old woman from Tap Tao subdistrict in Thoeng district, went missing following a flash flood on August 17. Her body was later found in the Hong River in Sai Khat village.
Infrastructure has also suffered, with the Pang Kha Bridge in Tap Tao, Thoeng district, washed away by rising waters, rendering it impassable. Meanwhile, 20 individuals remain trapped inside a 7-Eleven store in Ian Village, Hong subdistrict, Thoeng district, where water levels have risen between 1 and 1.5 meters. Rescue operations are ongoing.
Flooding and Landslide Risks in Multiple Provinces
The flood alert encompasses several districts in the Northern region, including Mueang, Chiang Saen, and Wiang Kaen in Chiang Rai; Phu Sang and Chiang Muan in Phayao; and Mueang and Tha Wang Pha in Nan, where flash floods and landslides are imminent. Additional risks are identified in Mae Hong Son’s Mueang and Pai districts, Chiang Mai’s Mae On, and Lampang’s Ngao and Wang Nuea districts.
Areas facing the danger of riverbank overflow and prolonged flooding include Mae Sai and Mae Chan in Chiang Rai, Mueang and Dok Khamtai in Phayao, Mueang and Song in Phrae, and Mueang and Na Noi in Nan. The Northeastern region is also on high alert, with districts like Chiang Khan in Loei, Mueang in Udon Thani, and Ban Muang in Sakon Nakhon under surveillance.
Separate Flash Flood Incident in Surat Thani
In an unrelated incident, Khao Sok National Park rangers and rescuers saved a Thai tour guide and 22 foreign tourists from a flash flood while they were exploring Nam Talu Cave in Surat Thani province. Unfortunately, another Thai tour guide was reported missing and later found deceased inside the cave. The flash flood, occurring on August 6, was caused by several days of heavy rain.
Coastal and Low-Lying Areas at Risk of High Tides
In addition to inland flooding, coastal and low-lying areas in the Central and Southern regions, including provinces like Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chumphon, and Surat Thani, are preparing for potential high tides. Residents in these areas should stay informed and follow official guidance closely.
As the region grapples with these severe weather conditions, authorities are intensifying rescue efforts and providing aid to those affected. The public is urged to adhere to safety guidelines and evacuation orders to ensure their safety.