Mud, sweat, fears: Thailand landslide warning after monsoon soak

Volunteers urged to stay alert as sodden slopes threaten flash floods and deadly collapses

Villagers in northern and eastern Thailand have been told to brace for landslides and flash floods after days of relentless rain left hillsides sodden and unstable.

The Department of Mineral Resources sounded the alarm today, July 11, warning that 11 provinces are now at severe risk of geological disasters over the next 48 to 72 hours.

The Geological Disaster Operation Centre flagged urgent concerns, saying the rainfall over the past 24 hours has exceeded 100 millimeters in many areas, leaving the topsoil waterlogged and prone to collapse.

“The situation is extremely serious,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. “We urge all residents and volunteers to stay vigilant and report any signs of soil movement or flash flooding immediately.”

At-risk landslide provinces include Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Tak and Trat.

High-risk zones include:

Mud, sweat, fears: Thailand landslide warning after monsoon soak | News by Thaiger
Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

Locals are being urged to monitor rainfall and terrain closely. The department has dispatched volunteer watch teams to measure water levels and issue alerts if slopes begin to shift.

Officials say even small earth tremors or minor cracks in the ground could be signs of an imminent landslide.

“We’re not just worried about rural areas,” added a ministry spokesperson. “Tourists, trekkers and locals in hillside resorts must be extra cautious during this period.”

Disaster prevention crews are on standby with rescue equipment and evacuation plans, and villagers are advised to avoid travelling through mountainous or riverside terrain until the all-clear is given.

Officials say the warning will remain in effect until at least July 13, with forecasts predicting continued downpours across the north and east.

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Bob Scott

Bob Scott is an experienced writer and editor with a passion for travel. Born and raised in Newcastle, England, he spent more than 10 years in Asia. He worked as a sports writer in the north of England and London before relocating to Asia. Now he resides in Bangkok, Thailand, where he is the Editor-in-Chief for The Thaiger English News. With a vast amount of experience from living and writing abroad, Bob Scott is an expert on all things related to Asian culture and lifestyle.
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