Fire Guts Cannabis Farm in Pattaya, Toxic Smoke Blankets Area

Firefighters responded at 7:36 a.m. on September 25 to a residential fire in the Thap Prasit area of Nong Preuay subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chachoengsao province. Two water trucks were deployed to extinguish flames that had engulfed a two-story house converted into a cannabis growing operation, with thick plumes of acrid smoke spreading across the neighborhood. Officers brought the fire under control after roughly 30 minutes of firefighting efforts.

Investigators found the residence had been modified into a large-scale cannabis cultivation facility occupying both floors, with plants and equipment severely damaged by the heat. No injuries or deaths were initially reported. A 47-year-old female facility operator told authorities that she observed sparks emanating from an electrical control box moments before hearing an explosion-like sound, after which fire spread rapidly. She immediately called emergency services.

A 60-year-old neighbor confirmed the property had operated as a cannabis farm for some time under foreign ownership. She heard the explosion, saw dense smoke pour from the building, and feared the fire would spread to her home, prompting her to alert authorities as well. Police from Pattaya City Station documented the scene and interviewed those involved, with preliminary findings suggesting an electrical short circuit in the control box triggered sparks that ignited the cannabis plants and equipment inside.

Damage assessment is pending detailed forensic inspection. During suppression efforts, firefighters, rescue personnel, police, and nearby residents experienced dizziness and headaches after inhaling smoke from the burning cannabis, forcing responders to withdraw from the immediate area to avoid prolonged exposure.