Chiang Rai slammed by new flooding amid fresh warnings

Chiang Rai just can’t catch a break! After being battered by devastating floods last month, Ko Sai and Mai Loong Khun communities have been hit by another round of intense flooding. Heavy rainfall overnight caused the Sai River to burst through a sandbag floodwall, swamping the area and leaving residents in disarray.

Thankfully, swift action by troops ensured locals were evacuated ahead of the deluge. Chiang Rai’s public relations office confirmed the damage today but there’s more trouble on the horizon.

The northern meteorological station warned that 70% of the province is set to be drenched again, with more rain coming courtesy of a high-pressure system from China and a monsoon trough hovering over northern Thailand. The Kok River is already rising, and low-lying districts like Mueang, Wiang Chai, Mae Chan, Doi Luang, and Chiang Saen are on high alert for more flooding and mudslides.

Officials have urged these areas to keep rescue crews and equipment ready.

“It’s crucial to stay informed about the weather conditions.”

Meanwhile, residents of Mueang and Mae Sai are still wading through the aftermath of last month’s floods. Roads are covered in mud, houses remain soaked, and clogged drains are holding back polluted water. The clean-up operation is slow, and fresh flooding is only adding to their misery, reported Thai PBS World.

In related news, a team led by Panadda Wongphudee, a beauty queen, presenter, and president of the Foundation for Good Deeds, encountered significant issues during their relief efforts in Chiang Rai. Panadda revealed that five vehicles broke down after refuelling at a local petrol station, which allegedly had water mixed with the fuel.

In other news, Chiang Rai geared up for a massive province-wide cleanup on Sunday, September 29, aiming to restore communities battered by recent floods. Dubbed “Big Cleaning Day,” this operation targeted public spaces and homes in eight zones across the capital district, with a special focus on vulnerable residents, including the elderly and disabled.