Mae Sai hit by renewed flooding

14 Sept 10:45 Key points summarised by AI

Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai province faces renewed widespread flooding as the Sai River, swollen by heavy rains in Myanmar's Shan state, breached its banks, impacting commercial areas and communities.
This marks the second flood this year, with officials warning of a potential repeat of last September's severe event, leading to the closure of the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge and patient transfers from the district hospital.
Experts attribute the increasing frequency and severity of flooding to multiple factors, including unusually heavy rainfall, deforestation, extensive mining activities, urban expansion, and the disappearance of natural flood paths.
The flooding extends beyond Mae Sai, with Sukhothai province also experiencing significant inundation as the Yom River overflowed its banks in several districts.

Torrential downpours forecast nationwide

Yesterday 12:46 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Meteorological Department issued its first severe weather warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall from October 18-25.
The warning covers potential flash floods, forest runoffs, and landslides across southern, eastern, northeastern, and central regions, including greater Bangkok.
The severe weather will unfold in two distinct phases, intensifying and expanding its footprint across various parts of the country.
Authorities urge communities in vulnerable areas to remain on high alert, with disaster response agencies placed on standby to assist residents.