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:
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Pai, Pang Mapha and Khun Yuam in Mae Hong Son
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Mae Chaem, Hot and Chom Thong in Chiang Mai
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Khun Tan and Pa Daet in Chiang Rai
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Bo Kluea and Pua in Nan
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Mueang Pan and Wang Nua in Lampang
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Laplae and Fak Tha in Uttaradit
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Chat Trakan and Nakhon Thai in Phitsanulok
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And tourist hotspots like Koh Chang in Trat.
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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