CHIANG RAI, Thailand – Acclaimed Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat shared a video on the Facebook page “Fans of Chalermchai Kositpipat” documenting the severe flooding in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai on September 10. The video shows floodwaters rising to the rooftops of shops in the Mae Sai market, marking the worst flooding in a decade.
In the video, Chalermchai, who had traveled from Chiang Rai to witness the flooding firsthand, describes the situation as “the most severe flooding in ten years.” He highlights the intense rain that has been falling for 2-3 days, leading to strong river currents and extensive damage. Chalermchai emphasizes the urgency of removing debris from the bridge crossing into Myanmar to prevent it from being washed away by the floodwaters.
The flood has impacted both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border, with water levels rising high enough to almost completely submerge the market at Tha Lo and surrounding areas. The heavy rainfall, which began on September 8, has caused significant destruction to shops and infrastructure, leaving many businesses devastated.
Local authorities and relief teams are working to address the damage and support those affected by the disaster.
