Heavy flooding forces closures in Khao Yai National Park

Heavy flooding has led to the closure of key sites in Khao Yai National Park, impacting popular tourist destinations and local communities. Takhro Falls and the Sai Yai River in Prachinburi were shut down yesterday, while Nang Rong Falls in Nakhon Nayok followed suit today.

Park chief Chaiya Huaihongthong confirmed the closures, attributing them to the continuous downpours that have battered the region. The severe weather has particularly affected Prachinburi’s Na Di district, where flash floods originating at the Kaeng Hin Phoeng rapids in the Sai Yai River caused significant disruptions.

Local sources reported that the heavy rain over the past few days has resulted in a substantial rise in water levels, making the rapids unsafe for rafting and inundating nearby residences, especially in Ban Saphan village of Saphan Hin Subdistrict.

Soldiers and rescue teams have been deployed via boats to evacuate locals and animals from the village’s 200 households, which are now cut off from safe zones due to the flooding, said Ammarin Ruensri, chief of the Ruam Katanyu rescue unit.

“The evacuation team remains on standby for any additional flash floods, particularly in Prachatakham district at the foot of Mount Khao Yai.”

Water levels saw a significant increase following an intense downpour last night, adding to the urgency of the situation.

Meanwhile, in Trat province, flooding has submerged numerous homes in Khao Saming district, forcing the temporary closure of several schools. The Khao Saming canal overflowed, flooding communities within the Khao Saming Municipal Area and reaching water levels of at least 120 centimetres. The mass of floodwater is expected to move towards Khlong Tha Pradu.

The Provincial Meteorological Office reported that Trat has received 3,086 millimetres of rainfall this year up to July 28, marking the highest volume in 32 years, reported Bangkok Post.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin plans to hold a meeting on August 5 at the Royal Irrigation Department to discuss a water management cooperation plan aimed at preventing recurrent flooding in various provinces.