On Wednesday, homes and businesses in tambon Wiang Pang Kham, Mae Sai district of Chiang Rai, found themselves overwhelmed by floods, transforming the area into one of the most devastated by recent downpours in Thailand’s upper North. In some spots, the floodwaters soared up to two meters, necessitating numerous evacuations. Water surged through the streets, forming unexpected rivers where roads once lay. This turmoil was vividly captured in photos shared by Wiang Phang Kham Subdistrict municipality.
Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district has been under relentless assault from floodwaters, while just to the south in Chiang Mai, tragedy struck as a landslide claimed six lives. The northern regions can’t seem to catch a break from the harsh weather’s unforgiving blows. Disaster mitigation officials in Chiang Rai have identified severe flooding issues, particularly evident in tambons Mae Sai, Wiang Pang Kham, and Koh Chang within the Mae Sai district. The water levels reached alarming heights of about one meter, coursing vigorously through the communities, officials reported.
Nearby residents, living adjacent to the overflowing Sai River, have been on high alert, readying themselves for possible evacuations at any moment. Over at Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non National Park, also in Mae Sai district, waters were seen gushing out of the famous Tham Luang Cave, a stark reminder of the harrowing 2018 cave rescue mission that captivated the world.
Sutthipong Julcharoen, permanent secretary for the interior, noted that Mae Sai district was experiencing its worst flooding in 80 years. In the neighboring Mae Fah Luang district, a landslide wreaked havoc on a household, resulting in one death, two injuries, and one person still unaccounted for. Local irrigation officials have reported that the Kok River’s flow has surged to critical levels, reaching 1,000 cubic meters per second, bolstered by runoff from Myanmar.
Rescue operations are in full swing across Chiang Rai, with brave rescuers navigating the strong currents to reach stranded residents. Social media has been flooded with distress calls and poignant images of submerged homes. The swift currents have complicated rescue efforts, prompting authorities to urge residents to seek higher ground while awaiting evacuation and cautioning against wading through the rapid waters.
A striking image of desperation, many residents of single-story homes were seen huddled on their roofs. Elderly individuals, unable to scale such heights, found refuge atop elevated furniture inside their flooded residences.
In Mae Ai district of Chiang Mai, tragedy struck once more as two landslides hit tambon Doi Laem on Tuesday, resulting in six fatalities and three injuries. Authorities have issued flash flood and runoff warnings to the nearby districts, amplifying the tension in these already beleaguered communities.
Despite the ongoing crisis, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra conveyed her limited capacity for command until after her government’s policy statement before parliament on Thursday. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai assured the public that military personnel were already on the ground, providing much-needed assistance in the flooded areas.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn underscored that, although two shelters and a large kitchen capable of preparing 600 meals per session have been established for flood victims in Mae Sai district, the aid currently falls short of the overwhelming needs. With approximately 9,000 households affected, there remains a significant gap in reaching many victims due to the fierce currents. Paetongtarn assured that support would arrive as soon as conditions allowed for safer access.
Mr. Phumtham emphasized the government’s vigilant monitoring of Mae Sai’s plight, stressing that after the prime minister’s policy speech, addressing the flood crisis would be the foremost priority. In line with this, the prime minister’s secretary-general, Prommin Lertsuridej, has scheduled a critical meeting with various agencies at parliament at 2 PM on Thursday, aiming to brainstorm and implement effective strategies to alleviate the dire situation.
This is so heartbreaking! Where’s the global community when Thailand needs help?
I agree, Tony. We need more international aid. This situation is dire.
It’s about time international bodies step up their game. Thailand can’t handle this alone.
Exactly, Dr. Henry. We’ve seen global efforts for less severe crises. Why is no one stepping up here?
How come every time there’s a disaster we expect international aid? Nations need to be more self-reliant.
MDavis, it’s easy to say that until it’s your home going underwater.
Isn’t it obvious that climate change is playing a significant role here?
Could be, but the government needs to prioritize infrastructure improvements. Flood defenses are outdated.
Sarah, people keep denying climate change, but events like these are undeniable evidence. How many tragedies will it take?
Absolutely, GreenWarrior42. Governments need to take immediate climate action.
If you ask me, the PM should have done more before it got this bad.
The rescue workers are incredibly brave. My prayers go out to them and the victims.
Yes, the rescue teams are doing an amazing job under such harsh conditions.
They deserve more recognition and support. It’s a dangerous job.
I’m not buying the government’s ‘prioritizing’ claim. They always say that but follow through is another thing.
Totally agree. Lots of promises, but rarely see them keep those promises.
What about the economic impact? Small businesses are devastated!
This just shows how underprepared we are for natural disasters. It’s a wake-up call.
Tara, you’re right. Our infrastructure isn’t built to withstand such extreme events.
Indeed, GeoEngineer. More investment in disaster-resilient infrastructure is urgently needed.
How long will it take for things to get back to normal? This looks disastrous.
Living in Chiang Rai, I can tell you it’s worse than what’s captured in pictures. People are really suffering.
Stay strong, Nam. The rest of us are watching and hoping for your safety.
Thanks for sharing, Nam. Can we do anything to help?
Donations and spreading awareness would help a lot. Many people are in dire need.
The government’s response seems sluggish. Why isn’t there more urgency?
Rafael, it might look sluggish, but these things are logistically complicated.
True, Ash. But some preparatory measures could have alleviated the current situation.
Why isn’t there a better early warning system? Lives could have been saved.
Government officials always show up late and make empty promises. It’s frustrating.
Agree, Valerie. Real action is what’s needed, not just talking points.
Kudos to the volunteers risking their lives to save others. They are the real heroes.
My relatives are in Chiang Mai, and they said it’s absolutely terrifying. No one knows what will happen next.
I’m so sorry to hear that, Blake. I hope they stay safe.
Thanks, Tina. We’re all hoping for the best, but it’s tough.
There is NO flooding in Chiang Mai city…these statements and headlines refer to the very large province of Chiang Mai. News sources and individuals need to be more careful in their statements, so that the public is not unnecessarily fearful. That has economic and psychological repercussions.
Not much can be done when faced with nature’s wrath. Sometimes you just have to ride it out.
This should be a lesson to improve our disaster response systems. What happened in Chiang Rai could happen anywhere.
Floods are part of life in Thailand, but this one is on another level. It’s shocking.
True, Jenny. We have to adapt, but it doesn’t make the suffering any easier.
Any updates on the Tham Luang cave? The situation there brings back memories of the rescue mission.
I was thinking the same. That cave has a lot of significance now.
Absolutely, Matthew. It’s almost eerie to think about another crisis there.
Does anyone have any info on how to donate to the relief efforts? I want to help.