Chiang Mai, a major tourist destination in northern Thailand, is grappling with widespread flooding after heavy monsoon rains caused the Ping River to overflow on 5 October.
The flooding has led to evacuations, with dozens of shelters set up to assist residents. Authorities are working to pump water out of affected areas, and the water level is expected to stabilise within five days.
This is the second major flood in six weeks, and the situation has exceeded initial expectations. Three people have died, including two who were swept away in mudslides. Thousands of residents, including bedridden elderly and children, remain in need of food and evacuation.
The flooding has also hit Chiang Mai’s famed elephant sanctuaries. Over 100 elephants were moved to higher ground, but tragically, two elephants at the Elephant Nature Park drowned. The park's director, Saengduean Chailert, expressed heartbreak at the loss, vowing to move the animals to safer locations before next year’s monsoon season.
Rail services to Chiang Mai have been suspended, though the city’s airport remains operational. Many areas of northern Thailand continue to experience floods, with 20 provinces affected. The Thai government has warned of further risks as more water is released from dams to prevent overflow.
Climate change has intensified Thailand’s annual monsoon season, increasing the likelihood of such severe weather events. Efforts are underway to mitigate the impact, but for Chiang Mai and its residents, the recovery will take time.