At least two people have died, and hundreds remain stranded in northern Thailand after heavy rains inundated the region, causing rivers to swell, settlements to flood, and triggering mudslides, authorities reported on Wednesday. The severe weather, which followed Typhoon Yagi—the most powerful storm in Asia this year has affected approximately 9,000 households, according to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
“Water currents are still strong,” Shinawatra stated. “All agencies are prepared, and they will respond immediately once the currents subside.”
In Thailand’s Chiang Mai province, flash floods and mudslides have been reported, resulting in two fatalities, as confirmed by the provincial governor. In the neighboring Chiang Rai province’s Mae Sai district, which borders Myanmar, efforts to reach flood-stricken areas have been hampered. District Chief Narongpol Kid-an noted that rubber boats were unable to navigate the floodwaters, leaving hundreds of residents stranded and awaiting assistance. Helicopters are being deployed to evacuate those trapped and to deliver essential supplies, including food and water.
A resident from Mae Sai’s main town, home to over 28,000 people, described their dire situation. Trapped on the second floor of a building, they reported that rising waters had submerged the lower levels. “We have not eaten anything since yesterday morning,” the resident said, requesting anonymity. “It is still raining heavily in Mae Sai. We hope a rescue team or somebody will come to help us.”
Meanwhile, the storm has also wreaked havoc in Vietnam, where it made landfall on Saturday, claiming at least 143 lives. Flooding there has forced thousands to evacuate, particularly near the Red River in Hanoi.
