District in Chiang Mai faces landslide threat amid waterlogged soil
Experts have warned about potential landslides and ground subsidence in Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai. The region is grappling with waterlogged soil after enduring two months of consecutive flooding, raising concerns about the stability of the land.
A TikTok video recently brought attention to the situation, as it showed water surfacing from the ground at multiple spots in the Mueang Na subdistrict, making some roads unusable. This footage, shared by user @j_khamsan, has underscored the urgency of the matter.
Kritsada Moonpa, a geologist from Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Science, shed light on the geological challenges faced by the area. He explained that much of Chiang Dao district’s subsoil consists of limestone, a rock type susceptible to dissolution when exposed to prolonged water contact.
“The floods that battered the North two months ago caused widespread submersion of land, leading to significant limestone dissolution.”
This process resulted in the formation of extensive subterranean caves filled with rainwater.
Once these caves reached capacity, excess water began to escape through surface openings, further complicating the situation. The presence of an impermeable rock layer beneath the limestone means the excess water remains trapped, exacerbating the dissolution of the limestone and heightening the risk of land subsidence.
Kritsada emphasised the need for further exploration to determine the size of these underground voids.
“It’s crucial to ascertain the extent of these cavities to assess the potential risks accurately.”
He also voiced concerns about the structural integrity of buildings in the district.
“Many structures are at risk of collapsing due to the unstable ground conditions.”
The situation calls for immediate attention and action to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of the community. As the exploration continues, local officials and residents remain on high alert, anticipating further developments, reported Bangkok Post.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Bangkok Post reports severe flooding in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, resulting in six deaths and numerous injuries as residents face evacuation and rescue challenges amid rising waters and landslides. (read more)
- South China Morning Post highlights Chiang Mai’s flooding crisis, urging tourists to remain vigilant as rising waters from the Ping River threaten safety, following the devastation of Super Typhoon Yagi across the region. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why does limestone dissolution pose a threat to Chiang Dao district?
Limestone dissolves easily in water, creating voids that weaken ground stability, risking landslides.
How might the presence of underground water-filled caves affect local infrastructure?
Caves cause ground instability, threatening building foundations and roadways, potentially leading to collapses.
What if the submerged limestone layer continues to dissolve over time?
Prolonged dissolution could increase void sizes, amplifying subsidence risks and compromising land safety.
How can local officials assess the extent of underground cavities in Chiang Dao?
Officials use geological surveys and advanced imaging to map and measure subterranean voids accurately.
What steps can be taken to prevent potential collapses in the region?
Reinforcing structures, improving drainage, and continuous monitoring can mitigate collapses and enhance safety.
