Flood rescue attempt claims elderly woman’s life in Chiang Mai

A rescue operation in Chiang Mai’s Nong Phueng sub-district ended in tragedy when a 71 year old woman, identified only as Nupin lost her life after a rescue boat capsized. The incident occurred as rescue teams attempted to evacuate three residents from a flooded house.

During the evacuation, the rescue boat overturned in deep, turbulent waters, plunging all three passengers into the flood. While rescuers quickly retrieved the victims, Nupin required immediate CPR before being rushed to Thep Panya Hospital.

Despite continued resuscitation efforts by medical staff, she could not be revived. Doctors later confirmed the presence of fluid in her lungs, indicating prolonged submersion.

In response to rising flood levels, local governments and rescue officials in Saraphli, Hang Dong, and San Patong districts have urged riverside communities to relocate vulnerable residents, valuables, and livestock to higher ground. The warning comes as a new surge of floodwater approaches from Mueang district.

The severe flooding prompted innovative rescue efforts. In Saraphli district, where floodwaters have reached depths of 1 to 2 metres, the abbot of Chedi Luang Temple employed an elephant to reach flood victims in areas inaccessible by conventional means due to strong currents, reported ThaiPBS.

The disaster has caused widespread disruption, with many villages in the Saraphli district experiencing power outages as a precautionary measure. Numerous vehicles have been submerged by the rapidly rising waters, catching many residents off guard.

Local officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.

In similar news, a Thai monk from Chedi Luang Temple in the northern province of Chiang Mai led two elephants to provide food and necessities to flood victims living along Ton Yang Road in Saraphi district.

According to a report by ThaiRath this morning, October 7, the floodwater level in Saraphi district, Chiang Mai province, remains high, with some areas still inaccessible. As a result, many locals were waiting for food and essential supplies from rescue teams.