Severe Storm Strikes Saraburi Songkran Festival, Massive Banner Structure Collapses on Concert Crowds—17-Year-Old Boy Dies, 11 Others Injured

On April 30, 2025, a severe summer storm with sudden powerful gusts struck the Songkran festival grounds at Phong Siri Market in Saraburi's central district. A large entrance banner structure was unable to withstand the wind force and collapsed onto crowds and shops below, causing immediate injuries and chaos. The concert featured 6-7 famous bands including Polycat, Paradox, and Potato, attracting primarily teenage attendees who began securing spots from approximately 4 p.m., creating severe crowding at the entrance. When the evening storm hit with sudden violent gusts, the massive banner structure failed and collapsed onto vendors and waiting crowds, resulting in multiple immediate injuries.

After the incident, Saraburi city district officials and rescue units responded to assist victims. A total of 11 injured people were found—6 women and 5 men. Among these, one sustained critical injuries from electrical shock, and one death was recorded: a 17-year-old boy. Two people suffered scalding from spilled oil at nearby shops. Of the 9 people directly struck by the falling structure, 2 suffered fractures (1 woman, 1 man), 1 man experienced severe electrical shock, 2 sustained head lacerations, and 3 others had various body bruises. All injured were transported to Saraburi Hospital.

The city district officer summoned event organizers for questioning and imposed strict safety measure requirements, permitting the concert to continue under the condition that public safety be rigorously maintained, with organizers held fully liable for any future incidents. The event has caused significant alarm among participants, and investigations are ongoing into the structural integrity standards and weather safety precautions for the venue.