MAE HONG SON, Thailand – Heavy rainfall triggered flash floods and landslides in northern Thailand, blocking several roads and bringing down power lines overnight, officials said on Tuesday.
The storm, which began on Monday evening, struck Mae Sariang and Sop Moei districts in Mae Hong Son province near the Myanmar border. Torrential rain caused the Mae Sam Laeb creek to overflow, sending mud and uprooted trees into residential areas and across local highways. Soldiers, community leaders, and provincial electricity workers worked through the night to clear debris and restore power. Authorities managed to partially reopen some traffic lanes by Tuesday morning, though continuous damage assessments are still underway.
Local officials urged motorists to temporarily avoid Highway 1194 between Mae Sariang and Mae Sam Laeb until safety clearances are completed. The Meteorological Department warned that a seasonal weather pattern will bring increased rainfall across Thailand from May 19 to 21. Heavy to very heavy rain is expected to hit the north, upper northeast, central, east, and southwestern coastal regions. Residents living near hillsides and low-lying waterways have been advised to prepare for potential flash floods and runoff over the coming days. (TNA)
