Flash Flood at Mae Sa Waterfall Injures Tourist
A flash flood at Mae Sa Waterfall in Chiang Mai's Doi Suthep-Pui National Park on August 15 injured one tourist and trapped several visitors; park staff evacuated all tourists safely with most sustaining minor injuries.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is warning tourists visiting Mae Sa Waterfall during the rainy season to be alert to flash flooding, after a sudden flood swept and injured one visitor. On August 15, a sudden flash flood occurred at Mae Sa Waterfall within Doi Suthep-Pui National Park in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, preventing some tourists from leaving the area quickly and sweeping others into the current. Some tourists became trapped at the waterfall.
Before the incident, park staff stationed at various levels of the waterfall noticed natural warning signs and immediately alerted tourists to exit the water and leave the area. However, the floodwaters were severe and arrived rapidly, preventing some tourists from escaping in time.
Park officials immediately launched a rescue operation and successfully evacuated all tourists to a safe area. Initial health assessments showed that most tourists sustained only minor injuries, such as scrapes. Staff provided first aid in the safe zone, and the tourists were able to return home normally. However, one tourist who was swept away reported pain and dizziness. Officials coordinated with Mae Rim Sub-district Municipality to transport this tourist to a hospital for examination and further treatment.
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is calling on tourists visiting waterfalls during the rainy season to check weather and rainfall conditions before traveling, assess risks from natural hazards, and strictly follow staff warnings and recommendations for their safety and protection of property.
In case of emergencies within the national park, visitors can contact the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation emergency hotline 1362, available 24 hours a day.
