Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Royal Aid Airlifted to 11 Villages Cut Off by Floods and Landslides

Helicopters delivered royal relief supplies to 11 villages in Nan province's Phuka District on August 22 after heavy rains triggered floods and landslides that cut off road access to highland settlements.

Royal Aid Airlifted to 11 Villages Cut Off by Floods and Landslides
1h ago Khaosod

On August 22, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin announced that his ministry has deployed helicopters to deliver royal relief supplies to residents of Phuka District, Puang Subdistrict in Nan province. Heavy rainfall triggered flash floods and landslides that cut off multiple roads and isolated at least 11 villages, particularly the highland settlements of Ban Khun Kun, Ban Pha Wiang, and Ban Nam Khwang, leaving residents unable to access food and essential supplies by land.

The ministry mobilized emergency response teams and deployed a helicopter to deliver the royal relief packages, which arrived on August 22. This marks the second consecutive day of supply flights to the affected areas. Athipol Charounchansaa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, represented the ministry in distributing the royal aid and additional assistance supplies.

Chomklin emphasized that the situation reflects the King's concern and compassion for people suffering from natural disasters, and that the royal relief supplies have brought hope to residents in cut-off areas. The ministry will prioritize helicopter deliveries to high-elevation zones and areas where roads remain blocked, as these are the only accessible routes. Chomklin noted that while ground access remains impossible, helicopter support can deliver food, relief packages, and essential supplies until normal access is restored.

The minister acknowledged that residents in the area have made significant conservation efforts over the past four to five years, shifting from maize cultivation to perennial crops to better protect upstream forests and reduce long-term erosion risks. However, the current disaster was triggered by exceptionally intense "rain bomb" conditions that dumped massive amounts of water in a short period, overwhelming the landscape and causing widespread flooding and landslides. Some affected areas remain without electricity.

"Our immediate priority is safeguarding the lives and well-being of residents," Chomklin stated. "We will not abandon our people in remote areas. Even where vehicles cannot reach, our helicopters can deliver food, relief supplies, and necessities. We will continue this operation until the situation stabilizes, and once roads are passable again, we will accelerate the area's recovery and rehabilitation."

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National

Pheu Thai Mobilizes as Northern Floods Hit Nan Province

Heavy flooding in Nan province has prompted Deputy Prime Minister Yotchayan Wongsawadi to command a relief operation, with Pheu Thai leaders mobilizing resources to assist residents across the stricken northern region.

Pheu Thai Mobilizes as Northern Floods Hit Nan Province
1h ago Khaosod

Climate change and global warming have destabilized nature across Thailand's northern region, triggering severe rainfall and flash-flood phenomena. Large volumes of rain fall in concentrated areas in a single spell, with Nan province suffering the worst impact as water surges inundate homes and destroy property. The province's steep terrain means rainfall accumulates in streams and gullies before rushing violently through narrow passages, creating extreme flooding that has submerged entire towns. While some conservationists blame deforestation, the article contends the real culprit is urban consumption and infrastructure development that has warmed the planet and destabilized the climate. In response, Deputy Prime Minister Yotchanan Wongsawadi, who oversees higher education, science, research and innovation, has been tasked by the Prime Minister to command the flood-response operation. He has stationed himself in Nan for several days, leading provincial officials and Pheu Thai politicians through the water and mud to oversee relief efforts firsthand. Agriculture Minister Suriya Juangroongruengkit has also deployed his ministry's teams to assist. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra instructed all Pheu Thai cabinet members not engaged in other duties to help residents with full commitment. Pheu Thai leaders, including Yotchanan and Suriya, have mobilized party resources to provide direct assistance. Yotchanan, drawing on his scientific expertise in satellite technology and water management, has demonstrated competence while also exercising the Prime Minister's authority to coordinate all agencies and release emergency funds for disaster relief. If the Pheu Thai team performs well during this crisis, it will strengthen public confidence in the party. The government must now prepare for flooding in other regions should heavy rains and flash floods continue. If the pattern follows previous years, floodwaters will cascade southward through the northern lowlands and into the central region and Bangkok, creating a crisis that will test the credibility of the Anutthin government.

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National

Government Approves 100 Million Baht for Nan Flood Relief

Thailand's government approved 100 million baht in emergency relief funds for Nan province after severe flooding and landslides devastated four districts, with authorities prioritizing rapid aid distribution to affected residents.

1h ago Khaosod

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported on August 22 that Director General Theeraphattanat Katchamat disclosed a severe situation in Nan province, where flooding, flash floods, and landslides have struck the districts of Phu Phiang, Pua, Santi Suk, and Tha Wang Pha, affecting a large number of residents. The department requested approval from the Bureau of the Budget to increase emergency funds for disaster relief. Since existing budget allocations in Nan province were insufficient, the Bureau of the Budget approved an additional 100 million baht in emergency funds under the authority of the Nan governor to assist disaster victims, particularly those with flooded homes. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation instructed Nan province to accelerate the delivery of aid to residents as quickly as possible. Deputy Minister of Interior Chatchart Thaisets emphasized that affected residents in designated disaster areas need not submit copies of identity cards, house registration documents, or flood photos; instead, they should report their information to local leaders and subdistrict officials, who will compile and forward applications to the district administration.

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Police

Former Radio DJ Found Dead After Assault in Bangkok Park

A former radio DJ and TikTok creator from Kamphaengphet was found dead in a Bangkok park pond on August 22 after a man claimed he threw him into the water during a fight. Vichai, 39, had descended into homelessness and struggled with alcoho

Former Radio DJ Found Dead After Assault in Bangkok Park
1h ago Khaosod

Vichai, 39, from Kamphaengphet Province, was once a celebrated community radio host, comedian, and TikTok content creator before his life unraveled into homelessness and ultimately death. Police arrested Tawee (Tom) after Vichai was found dead in Benjakitti Park's pond in Bangkok's Thonglor area on August 22. Tom claimed he threw Vichai into the water after a fight, alleging Vichai was mentally unstable and harassing tourists.

Vichai's grandfather, 78, told reporters he could not believe his grandson had become homeless. He recalled that Vichai was once a celebrated radio host in neighboring districts with a reputation for community service, and was sponsored through his education by a Buddhist monk. The family learned only recently that Vichai had moved to Bangkok to work as a security guard. His grandfather noted that Vichai had struggled with alcohol in his final period and may have faced serious personal problems.

Neighbor Malay, 59, remembered Vichai as a good-natured child who loved storytelling and was confident and outgoing. She recalled he briefly ordained as a monk and later became famous for broadcasting live TikTok videos to earn income. She was shocked to hear allegations that he engaged in harassment and was killed because of it, saying such behavior was completely out of character.

Phra Kru Satthavachirakon, abbot of Wat Pradat Jet Lang temple in Lan Krathip District, Kamphaengphet, had sponsored Vichai's upbringing since childhood after Vichai's mother died in an accident and his father suffered brain damage from a separate accident. The abbot explained that Vichai completed vocational training, became a celebrated radio host with his own family, but went through repeated cycles of monastic ordination and lay life, eventually moving to Bangkok for work before disappearing.

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National

Thailand Fields Best Squad Against Vietnam in ASEAN Cup Final

Thailand deployed its strongest squad against defending champion Vietnam in the 2026 ASEAN Cup final first leg at Rajamangala Stadium, with coach Anthony Hudson fielding three attacking starters to challenge the "Golden Star.

Thailand Fields Best Squad Against Vietnam in ASEAN Cup Final
1h ago Khaosod

Thailand's national team fielded its strongest lineup to face Vietnam in the 2026 ASEAN Cup final first leg on August 22 at Rajamangala Stadium, hosting the defending champion Vietnam side known as the "Golden Star."

Head coach Anthony Hudson selected his best available players, with three attacking starters: Kukka Kamyok, Yodsak Burophon, and Theersakdi Pueypimay. The starting eleven comprised goalkeeper Kampol Phatmaorakul, defenders Natthapong Sairiia, Manuel Tom Bierh, Seksarn Raatree, and Saraach Yooyean (captain), midfielders Kukka Kamyok, Yodsak Burophon, Waris Chuutong, and Ousamah Tiangkam, and forwards Theersakdi Pueypimay and Chaiyapol Ot-thon.

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Police

Police Seize 285kg Ketamine Stashed on Nakhon Ratchasima Roadside

Police seized 285 kilograms of ketamine left on a roadside in Nakhon Ratchasima's Bua Lai district, believed intended for traffickers distributing drugs to interior zones. Acting on an informant's tip, officers conducted surveillance and di

Police Seize 285kg Ketamine Stashed on Nakhon Ratchasima Roadside
2h ago Khaosod

Authorities seized 285 kilograms of ketamine left at a roadside location in Bua Lai district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, believed to be awaiting pickup by drug traffickers for distribution into the interior zone. Acting Police Major Komsane Nilsomboon, commander of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau Region 2, revealed that officers received intelligence from an informant about a scheduled drug delivery in the Bua Lai area. Coordinates with national narcotics authorities led to a joint surveillance operation along the informant's tip-off route. Police searched the area and discovered black bags left on an unnamed road near Nong Wa subdistrict and Nong Wa village. After inspection, officers found ketamine—a Class 2 controlled substance—in the form of white crystals sealed in transparent press-and-pull plastic bags, each weighing roughly 1 kilogram. The bags were packed in 15 brown cardboard boxes wrapped in black plastic, each box containing approximately 19 kilograms, for a total of about 285 kilograms. Officers then conducted a stakeout to intercept the collection team, continuing surveillance until around 10 p.m. When no one arrived to collect the drugs, police withdrew and transported the seized material to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau Region 2 office in Khon Kaen province for inventory and documentation. The evidence was then turned over to investigators at Bua Lai Police Station to proceed with legal action.

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National

Ray McDonald's Vespa Friends Remember Fellow Enthusiast

Ray McDonald, a beloved Vespa enthusiast who led Bangkok's Vintage Vespa Thai club, was remembered by nearly 20 riders at a memorial gathering at Wat Yang temple on August 22, 2026. Known for his kindness and adventurous spirit, McDonald in

Ray McDonald's Vespa Friends Remember Fellow Enthusiast
2h ago Khaosod

Ray McDonald's Vespa riding group held a final memorial gathering on August 22, 2026, at Wat Yang, a royal temple in Bangkok. Nearly 20 members of the Vintage Vespa Thai club, led by Chin Asvawat Jinlongveeraskul, came to pay their respects. Pelé-Christopher Washington helped arrange parking, and Ray's longtime companion Mam Srinaya brought out his favorite helmet as a welcome tribute.

Chin revealed that the group had ridden together countless times, with Ray always taking the lead and looking after his friends. Ray was known for his kind nature and approachability—he would always sign autographs for younger riders who wanted to connect with him. His passion for Vespa was evident from the start; whenever he wanted to explore new places, the entire group would ride along as a team.

The helmet on display that day was Ray's constant companion, appearing in countless photos of him leading group rides. It had become inseparable from his story and travels. After the memorial service, the larger group moved to the Victory Monument to avoid disrupting the temple grounds, sending only a small delegation to pay their final respects.

The Vespa community in Thailand numbers in the thousands across all provinces, with groups gathering locally. Ray's passing prompted memorial rides from Vespa enthusiasts nationwide. Friends confirmed his extraordinary love for the scooter, recalling how he once traveled to Italy to ride with Vespa groups around the world. He returned full of joy and stories, sharing photos and videos of his adventures—memories that now carry a bittersweet weight.

When asked if friends noticed anything unusual beforehand, they recalled seeing moments in his videos where Ray appeared slightly disoriented, as if dizzy, despite not drinking. These signs had been present for some time. Ray had also grown easily tired, especially during long rides or in hot sun—something friends had observed for months. Members now wish to make merit on his behalf and honor his memory through charitable acts.

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Community

Fans Lay Flowers in Orange to Honor Ray MacDonald

Fans gathered at Wat Yang Royal Temple on August 22 to honor entertainer Ray MacDonald with orange flowers, his favorite color, during the third night of his funeral rites.

Fans Lay Flowers in Orange to Honor Ray MacDonald
2h ago Khaosod

A memorial ceremony for Ray MacDonald opened a space for fans to lay flowers in orange, a color symbolizing love, remembrance, and the entertainer's personal favorite. On August 22, 2025, the third night of Ray MacDonald's funeral rites at Wat Yang Royal Temple, fans gathered to pay their final respects with floral tributes in orange—chosen for its significance to Ray and its association with the Rerorn logo. The temple grounds were also filled with wreaths from family, friends, and entertainment industry figures paying their respects to Ray MacDonald.

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Police

Body of 34-Year-Old Man Found After 29 Days in River

A 34-year-old laborer from Mae Saraing District was found dead in the Yom River 29 days after drowning while collecting logs on July 24. His family had given up hope of recovering the body.

Body of 34-Year-Old Man Found After 29 Days in River
2h ago Khaosod

A 34-year-old man who drowned in the Yom River 29 days ago while attempting to collect logs has been found. His family had accepted that the body would never be recovered.

On August 22, Mae Saraing District Officer Vorasak Panthong announced that at 9:30 a.m., authorities were notified of a body caught on the riverbank at Ban Thung Paem in Mae Saraing District. At 10:30 a.m., police from Tha Ta Fang Station, doctors from Mae Saraing Hospital, local administration officials, village headman, and rescue workers from Mae Yom Municipality arrived to conduct an examination and recover the body.

Initial identification based on facial features was not possible. However, relatives later confirmed the deceased was Rangsit, 34, a laborer from Ban Huai Luang who had gone missing on July 24 after being swept underwater while gathering logs in the Yom River. The family is now preparing to hold merit-making ceremonies.

On July 25, District Officer Vorasak visited the man's home to pay respects and speak with his family, who work in agriculture and have a low income. Despite the family's belief that the body would never be found, it has now been recovered.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Tourist Defies Red Flag, Nearly Drowns After Ignoring Lifeguard Warnings

A tourist ignored lifeguard warnings and red flags at Ton Sai Beach in Phuket, nearly drowning after being pulled underwater by dangerous waves and currents before being rescued by lifeguards.

Tourist Defies Red Flag, Nearly Drowns After Ignoring Lifeguard Warnings
2h ago Khaosod

A foreign tourist ignored warnings and entered the water at Ton Sai Beach, Sakhu Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket, despite a red flag warning of dangerous conditions. Lifeguards attempted to explain the dangers and stop her, but she refused, telling them "I flew here to swim." She entered the water anyway, ignoring the red flag indicator of hazardous waves and currents.

Shortly after, lifeguards discovered she was being battered by waves and currents and unable to help herself. Fearing she would drown, they rushed to her aid and successfully pulled her from the water. She was unconscious from drowning but was revived and brought to safety.

Lifeguards expressed frustration that some tourists continue to disregard warnings and attempt to swim in red-flag zones despite daily safety efforts. They urged all beachgoers to respect the red flag warning system and follow lifeguard instructions strictly, as the flags are not arbitrary restrictions but critical safety signals warning of dangerous waves and currents.

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Regional

Eight Teachers Battle Flooded Rivers in 48-Km Trek Home

Eight teachers from a remote school in Mae Hong Son Province safely completed a grueling 48-kilometer trek home Friday, crossing 29 swollen streams over eight hours despite severe flooding.

Eight Teachers Battle Flooded Rivers in 48-Km Trek Home
2h ago Khaosod

Eight teachers from Ban Huay Moo School in Mae Sariang District, Mae Hong Son Province, faced a harrowing journey home, crossing 29 swollen streams over eight hours to cover 48 kilometers and arriving safely.

On August 22, the group of eight teachers had to confront a severe natural obstacle: torrential floodwaters during their return journey home after school on Friday evening, August 21. Teacher Nuttamon Khunkam shared the account on Facebook with photos, describing the arduous trip. The group consisted of two male and six female teachers with six motorcycles, departing from school at 10 a.m. heading to Mae Sariang District, covering approximately 48 kilometers.

The challenging journey of 48 kilometers took eight hours total, arriving at their destination at 6 p.m. The main obstacle was crossing 29 streams with raging floodwaters and dangerously high water levels.

Despite the hardship, the two male teachers exerted tremendous effort pushing and supporting all six motorcycles across each stream one by one. Two motorcycles sustained damage from the floodwaters and difficult terrain and could not start, forcing them to be left behind temporarily.

Despite the journey being filled with difficulties and risks, the teachers' mutual care, unity, and spirit of cooperation allowed all eight to safely reach Mae Sariang District that evening. Their journey earned praise from social media users, highlighting the admirable dedication and spirit of rural teachers.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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