CHIANG MAI, Thailand – Mae Sa waterfall, a popular attraction in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, has been temporarily closed following a flash flood that gushed down from the mountain on August 16, catching several tourists off guard and sweeping some away despite urgent warnings from park rangers. Rangers had noticed unusual signs in the area and immediately warned tourists enjoying themselves in the stream to leave quickly for their safety, but the sudden surge of water came so rapidly that several visitors were caught unprepared and carried downstream by the strong currents.

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All tourists were subsequently rescued by park rangers, with no fatalities reported, although some suffered minor cuts and bruises and received first aid from the rescue team. Several tourists were also stranded at the waterfall and were eventually brought to safety as rangers worked swiftly to evacuate the area amid continued rainfall and rising water levels.

Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said on Sunday that he had instructed the chiefs of all national parks across the country to strengthen safety measures during the rainy season and warn tourists about the dangers of flash floods. Regarding the Mae Sa incident, he said it was fortunate that no one was killed or seriously injured, adding that park officials should remain on full alert throughout the rainy season to prevent similar occurrences.

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He emphasized that tourists should be warned in advance of the threat of flash floods when visiting waterfalls and reminded to strictly follow the advice of park officials at all times. The temporary closure of Mae Sa waterfall will remain in effect until authorities determine that conditions are safe for visitors, with park officials continuing to monitor weather patterns and water flow in the area. The incident has prompted renewed calls for heightened vigilance at natural attractions across northern Thailand, where seasonal downpours frequently trigger sudden floods that pose serious risks to unsuspecting tourists.

-Thailand News (TN)