Laos Post

Monday, Oct 07, 2024

Beloved Thailand's Tourist Gem, Chiang Mai, Faces Floods as Elephants Seek Safety

The popular northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, a favorite among tourists, experienced widespread flooding on Saturday as the Ping River overflowed due to heavy seasonal rainfall. Despite the challenges, local authorities and residents are showing resilience as they work together to manage the situation and protect this beautiful city.
Authorities have initiated evacuations in affected areas and are actively pumping water out of residential zones while clearing blocked waterways to help the floodwaters recede more quickly. Temporary shelters have been set up across the city to accommodate those displaced by the rising waters.

Chiang Mai's Ping River, which runs along the eastern edge of the city, has reached critical levels, prompting concerns. However, the provincial irrigation office reassured locals and tourists alike by forecasting that the water levels should stabilize and return to normal within five days.

In the midst of the floods, an extraordinary sight emerged—efforts were underway to evacuate elephants and other animals from sanctuaries on the outskirts of the city. Around 125 elephants were safely moved from the Elephant Nature Park, although some sought higher ground on their own. Ten animal shelters were also affected by the floods.

Chiang Mai Governor Nirat Pongsitthavorn acknowledged that the flooding, the second in just six weeks, exceeded initial expectations. Despite this, the Thai spirit of resilience shines through as efforts continue to restore normalcy.

While state railway services to Chiang Mai were temporarily suspended, flights at Chiang Mai International Airport continued as normal. The flooding in Chiang Mai is part of a larger weather pattern affecting 20 provinces in northern Thailand. Since August, at least 49 people have tragically lost their lives, and 28 others have been injured due to the heavy rains.

In Bangkok, authorities are managing the flow of water from the Chao Phraya Dam to prevent it from exceeding capacity. This action is expected to impact residents downstream, including those in Bangkok and its surrounding areas.

Thailand, known for its vibrant cities and resilient communities, is once again showing its strength as it faces these seasonal challenges.
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