Elephants and Tourists Saved as Severe Flooding Engulfs Chiang Mai

Severe flooding in Chiang Mai, Thailand, prompted evacuations as authorities released dam water, impacting 20 provinces. Rescue teams aided residents, while tourists faced disruptions; fatalities reached 49 since August.

Central Thailand is bracing for severe flooding after weeks of heavy rain led officials to release water from a major dam. In Chiang Mai, many residents remain cut off by waist-high floodwaters, prompting volunteer rescue teams to provide food and evacuate those stranded. Tourist hotspots like the Night Bazaar face significant water overflow.

In response, authorities are evacuating residents and establishing shelters while working to clear waterways. As the situation unfolds, flooding affects twenty provinces, with the death toll reaching at least 49. The Thai government is also managing water flow from the Chao Phraya Dam to prevent further flooding in downstream areas.