The Department of Mineral Resources has issued a warning to ten provinces about potential landslides and flash floods due to expected heavy rainfall from August 12-14, 2024. The department’s Geological Disaster Operations Center has alerted volunteers and residents to prepare for over 100 mm of rain, which could lead to dangerous conditions in the coming days.
On August 12, 2024, the water level in the Pai River in Mae Hong Son exceeded critical levels, rising to 3.06 meters, well above the critical threshold of 2.75 meters. Authorities have issued warnings to residents along the riverbanks to prepare for possible flooding. In Ban Mae Ko Pi, Mae Yuam Noi Subdistrict, Khun Yuam District, students were unable to return home as the river separated them from their village. Some students sought refuge by climbing to higher ground in the mountains, while villagers and teachers braved the strong currents to deliver food and water to those stranded.
In another part of Mae Hong Son, flash floods inundated Tham Pla Park shortly after noon on August 12. While officials are still assessing the damage, no fatalities have been reported. Six individuals were rescued from a resort within the park, having become stranded due to the unexpected flooding. These individuals were not tourists but rather resort owners and employees. They were safely evacuated by officials using rubber rafts.
The region has been significantly impacted by non-stop rain, leading to a flood level of 1.6 meters in Pang Mapha District, Mae Hong Son Province. This flooding trapped six people, including children, at a resort. Authorities responded quickly, confirming that the six individuals were safely moved to higher ground.
At Tham Pla-Pha Suea Waterfall National Park, the Huai Pha River overflowed, flooding the park’s tourist areas. As a result, officials have temporarily closed the park to visitors and moved staff to safety on the second floor of the office building. The situation is being closely monitored, with services to remain closed until conditions improve.
Meanwhile, heavy rain and flash floods also affected the Lam Takhong tent camping area within Khao Yai National Park on the night of August 11. Tourists were forced to gather their belongings and evacuate in the middle of the night as floodwaters inundated the site. Park officials have since relocated the camping area to a safer location, away from low-lying areas prone to flooding.
Mr. Chaiya Huai Hong Thong, head of Khao Yai National Park, reported that thunderstorms and heavy rain began around 10:30 p.m. on August 11 and continued throughout the night, leading to the flash flood. The flooding caught many tourists by surprise, as the area had not previously experienced such heavy rainfall. Although belongings were damaged, no injuries were reported. The park has since taken measures to prevent future incidents by relocating tent sites to higher ground.
In response to these events, the Department of Mineral Resources has urged volunteers and residents in Mae Hong Son, Tak, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Loei provinces to remain vigilant for landslides and flash floods. Areas particularly at risk include Muang, Pang Mapha, Pai, Mae La Noi in Mae Hong Son Province; Tha Song Yang and Mae Ramat in Tak Province; Omkoi, Mae Ai, and Fang in Chiang Mai Province; Thoeng, Mae Suai, and Mae Chan in Chiang Rai Province; Bo Kluea, Pua, Tha Wang Pha, Chiang Klang, Thung Chang, and Song Kwae in Nan Province; Chiang Kham Pong in Phayao Province; Tha Pla in Uttaradit Province; Nakhon Thai in Phitsanulok Province; Lom Kao in Phetchabun Province; and Dan Sai, Phu Luang in Loei Province.
From August 13-15, 2024, the monsoon is expected to strengthen, with a monsoon trough extending through northern Thailand. Additionally, a low-pressure system over Vietnam is contributing to increased rainfall in the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand. While rainfall may be unevenly distributed, with light to moderate rain expected in most areas, the risk of heavy rain, flash floods, and landslides remains high.
The lower northern, western northeastern, and central regions, including Bangkok and its surrounding areas, may experience lighter rainfall, but continuous monitoring is advised as the rainy season progresses. Between August 16-22, 2024, there is a continued trend of increased rainfall across Thailand, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions. Although no tropical cyclones are currently forming near Thailand, the situation remains fluid, and residents are advised to stay informed of any developments.