Heavy Rain Triggers Flash Floods in Mae Hong Son Village

On September 22 at 5:30 p.m., Phongpipat Meepenchamaht, head of the Mae Sam Laeb Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Mae Hong Son, received reports of flooding in the Siwadae village area in Mae Sam Laeb subdistrict, Sob Moei district. A school bridge was damaged and swept away by the floodwaters. The surge eroded riverbanks severely, causing extensive damage to walls and roads throughout the area. Residents fled in panic as floodwaters rose. The Mae Sam Laeb Subdistrict Administrative Organization immediately deployed rescue teams and medical personnel to the scene, but encountered obstacles as access roads to the village were cut off in several sections. Heavy machinery will be brought in tomorrow to clear the routes so residents can travel normally again.

Wiburin Waiwaebundit, Governor of Mae Hong Son, warned residents to remain alert for heavy rainfall, which could trigger flash floods, sudden floods, and landslides between September 22 and 27. Particular attention should be paid to rapid water level rises, overflowing riverbanks, and flooding in low-lying areas along the main rivers including the Moi River, Yuam River, Mae Sariang Stream, and tributary streams. The governor ordered all relevant agencies to prepare for emergency response, including trimming hazardous vegetation, clearing waterway obstructions, setting up temporary shelters for disaster victims, and providing close support to vulnerable populations. All agencies have been instructed to coordinate and integrate efforts across all sectors to handle potential emergencies.