Overview of the Situation
Mae Hong Son, a northern border province in Thailand, has recently experienced flash floods and landslides due to heavy rainfall. These natural disasters have severely damaged public utilities, residential areas, agricultural lands, as well as popular tourist attractions in Muang and Pai districts. As a result, flash flood warnings have been issued for 20 provinces, primarily in the northern regions of the country.
Impact on Local Communities
Mae Hong Son governor, Chettha Mosikarat, has ordered a rapid assessment of the damages incurred, with plans to provide assistance and compensation as soon as possible. The flooding and landslides began on Friday night, affecting numerous areas in Muang and Pai districts. This has led to extensive damage to public utilities, local community buildings, and farmlands.
In Muang district, 373 houses were hit by flash floods in Ban Huay Pha, resulting in one woman’s death when she was swept away by strong currents. Additionally, mudslides caused significant damage to six houses and two schools. In Ban Mok Cham Pae, 38 houses and their surrounding farmland were inundated by overflow from nearby streams.
A similar situation occurred in Pai district, with flash floods affecting Moo 5 and Moo 11 villages and their 2,000 residents. The floods have resulted in damaged roads and agricultural crops.
Effects on Tourism
Two notable tourist attractions, Tham Pla Cave and Su Tong Pae Bridge in Muang district, have also been affected by the floods and landslides. With the tourist high season approaching, the governor has emphasized the need for swift restoration efforts to minimize the impact on the local tourism industry.
Warnings for Other Provinces
Surasee Kittimonthon, secretary-general of the Office of National Water Resources and deputy director of the National Water Command Centre, has reported heavy rainfall in several provinces, including Uttaradit, Ubon Ratchathani, Lop Buri, Trat, Trang, and Kanchanaburi. He has urged residents to stay alert for potential flash floods in the coming days in a number of provinces across the country.
Affected Provinces
The following provinces should be on high alert for possible flash floods:
- Chiang Rai
- Phetchabun
- Bung Kan
- Chon Buri
- Rayong
- Chanthaburi
- Trat
- Kanchanaburi
- Ranong
- Chiang Mai
- Mae Hong Son
- Tak
- Lampang
- Phrae
- Nan
- Phayao
- Uttaradit
- Phitsanulok
- Uthai Thani
- Phang-nga
As the situation unfolds, residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this challenging time.
