Perched majestically atop Khao Kradong, the colossal Buddha statue gazes serenely over the Muang district of Buri Ram province. It’s a sight to behold for locals and tourists alike, embodying both tranquility and cultural heritage. Yet recently, a different kind of local legend has captured the imagination of this northeastern Thai region, stirring both curiosity and a pinch of concern.
Last Thursday, a group of mushroom pickers, wandering through the lush forests at the base of Khao Kradong, stumbled upon an unexpected auditory experience. As they foraged for wild mushrooms, a deep, mysterious rumbling emanated from beneath their feet. Startled, they whipped out their smartphones, capturing the eerie sounds that echoed through the ground.
One particular forager, fascinated and perhaps a bit unnerved, shared his find online. “I heard the sound of boiling water in the ground below me,” he described, painting a picture of subterranean intrigue that quickly captured the region’s attention. The audio clip spread like wildfire, igniting a flurry of speculation about the long-dormant volcano’s potential reawakening. Could Khao Kradong, silent for centuries, really be rumbling back to life?
Adding to the tension was a recent seismic event: the March 28 earthquake in Myanmar. Its tremors were potent enough to rattle parts of Thailand, even toppling the towering state audit building in Bangkok. With these events fresh in everyone’s minds, it was easy for fear to take root alongside the rumors.
Calming the swirling swirl of speculation, the National Resources and Environment Office in Buri Ram stepped in. Their investigation of the low mountain quickly dispelled fears of geological danger. Senior official Wuthichai Pirunsoonthorn addressed the media on a clear Monday morning, bringing breath-of-fresh air reassurance.
“Khao Kradong has been dormant for an estimated range of 300,000 to 900,000 years,” explained Pirunsoonthorn, his tone both confident and calming. The rumblings heard by those curious mushroom hunters were not a harbinger of volcanic fury. Rather, they were the innocent sounds of water running underground through a maze of tiny rock-laden channels.
PPTV quoted him as saying, “It is the sound of running underground water, when the water channel is pitted with small rock holes.” For the relieved residents of Buri Ram, Pirunsoonthorn’s words were a soothing balm: “No need for panic.”
So, while Khao Kradong continues its centuries-long slumber under the Buddha’s watchful gaze, life in the shadow of the mountain proceeds undisturbed. The residents return to their routine, eagerly sharing their slice of life with visitors, and recounting tales—not of volcanic eruptions—but of their peaceful, scenic, and serenely rumbling haven.
Wow, I really thought the volcano was coming back to life! Nature can be so mysterious.
I know right! But the explanation about underground water is pretty fascinating too.
True, I never even knew rocks could make noises like that.
This isn’t the first time people have confused natural sounds for something supernatural.
I’m skeptical. How do we know this isn’t a cover-up? Ancient forces are always underestimated.
Really? You think there’s a conspiracy about a dormant volcano? That’s a bit far-fetched.
While skepticism can foster truth, this one is scientifically debunked.
Rocks and water making noise is cool, but the timing with the earthquake conspiracy makes me wonder. Coincidences pile up fast.
Everything’s not a conspiracy, Arthur. Nature has its quirks.
I find it amazing how a simple misunderstanding turned into regional news. We should appreciate these little wonders more often.
This was such a non-event. I can’t believe it even made headlines.
People love drama, even if there’s none to be found.
Still better than some of the depressing news out there.
Living near Khao Kradong, I can confirm all’s quiet. Except for those mushrooms… they’re out of this world!
It’s a reminder to balance fear with scientific inquiry. We owe our peace of mind to experts like Wuthichai Pirunsoonthorn.
Exactly! Trust in science is so crucial.
Or maybe it’s trust in whatever the ‘experts’ want us to believe.
I’m thrilled that this story brought attention to geomorphological processes.
I visited Khao Kradong last year, and it’s refreshing to hear it’s still a peaceful hotspot for tourism.
Why are people so eager to jump to catastrophic conclusions? Find serenity in nature rather than anxiety.
I agree. The landscape offers peace if people choose to see it.
What’s intriguing is we still have much to learn about these natural formations and the sounds they produce.
Yes, Mother Nature keeps many secrets yet.
Smartphones once again prove crucial in capturing unexpected moments in life.
In times of uncertainty, reassurance is invaluable. Thanks to those who quell fears with truth.
Next time, remember that the rumbles underfoot could just be nature’s quiet shenanigans.