Renowned Thai abbot dies from heatstroke amid soaring temperatures
A renowned abbot from a well-known temple passed away unexpectedly yesterday after suffering from heatstroke in a bathroom.
The 66 year old Phra Khru Kampeera Siddhikun, abbot of Wat Burapha Ban Khae and head monk of Phak Phang subdistrict, was discovered by fellow monks and rushed to a hospital. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at 6.30pm, yesterday, March 26.
His body was returned to the temple for religious rites, drawing numerous residents and disciples, many unable to hold back tears.
Phra Khru Kampeera, highly respected and known for his development work, was admired by locals and people from other provinces, including many prominent figures who became his disciples.
The morning of his death, he had mentioned the intense heat during his almsgiving, expressing fatigue and the need to return to the temple.
Sixty year old monk, Luang Ta Charan Somjaro, recounted taking him to a clinic where he received treatment. Later, at 6pm, Luang Ta Charan found him unresponsive in the bathroom, lying face down with blood at his mouth.
He alerted community leaders and rescue personnel, who provided first aid. The hospital endeavoured to stabilise him, but he passed away peacefully at 7pm reported KhaoSod.
Chaiyaphum province has experienced extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 35 to 40°C since early March. This has led to a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly among the elderly with pre-existing conditions, resulting in four deaths from heatstroke in less than a month.
Last year, the unexpected death of a homeless man in Pattaya prompted speculation and an investigation by Thai police. The 50 year old man, identified as Noi, was discovered unresponsive near a bus stop amid the scorching midday heat.
Police are considering multiple possible causes for Noi’s death, including an underlying health condition, severe heatstroke, or a combination of both.
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