CHIANG MAI, Thailand – Flooding in Chiang Mai has worsened, with water levels rising and spreading across a wider area, despite being slightly lower than the previous flood, Oct 4.
The rapid and forceful surge of water has inundated numerous communities and commercial districts, causing significant hardship for residents.
This second round of flooding within a week has proven to be as devastating as the first. In the heart of the city, along the famous Night Bazaar, where numerous shops and large hotels are located, the streets have been transformed into a canal, with water levels reaching 50-70 centimeters. Smaller vehicles have struggled to navigate these conditions, forcing authorities to use large trucks to transport tourists from hotels in the area to the airport.
Local businesses, despite their preparations, were caught off guard by the sudden rise in water levels. Many shop owners expressed their concerns about potential damage to their goods caused by the surging water and uncertainty about whether the flood would worsen.
Beyond the Night Bazaar, the Ping River, which reached a peak of 4.81 meters, although slightly lower than the previous flood, inundated numerous communities within a one-kilometer radius including a golf course.
All 13 buildings of police flats were submerged in over a meter of water. Residents have been gradually evacuating since Friday morning due to water and electricity being cut off. Officials have mobilized boats to evacuate stranded individuals.
The situation in Chiang Mai remains precarious as flash floods in the northern part of the province could further increase water levels in the Ping River.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has deployed military personnel to assist with flood relief efforts in the north. He has instructed officials to closely monitor the situation, install high-pressure water pumps, and relocate vehicles to safe areas. Schools in the affected areas have been temporarily closed.
In Chiang Mai’s Mae Taeng district, efforts are underway to rescue approximately 126 elephants. So far, 117 elephants have been safely relocated, with rescue operations ongoing for the remaining nine. Other animals have also been moved to safety centers. (TNA)
