SARABURI, Thailand – Heavy rain in the mountainous upstream areas of Cha-om subdistrict, Kaeng Khoi district, triggered a rapid surge of runoff on Aug. 30, flooding several communities and leaving some tourists stranded at accommodations. The flooding began at about 6 p.m. after heavy rain around the upstream areas of Chet Kot Waterfall in Village 11 and Krok E-Dok Waterfall in Village 5. Runoff rushed into lower-lying areas, including Khlong Hin Ruang in Village 9, where several tourists became stranded at their accommodation. Local officials and rescue teams moved in to assist the stranded tourists, with everyone brought to safety.
The floodwater then continued toward Village 8 in Ban Hin Tang, where strong currents were reported near the Thai-Lao Bridge, before flowing into lower-lying areas of Villages 2, 7 and 10.
Fallen trees also blocked some roads. The village headman of Village 10 brought in a backhoe to clear the obstruction and reopen the route for traffic.
Saraburi Governor Bancha Chaowarin and Deputy Governor Suraphan Silapasuwan directed the response, while Kaeng Khoi District Chief Jiranchai Athitnopchai coordinated operations at the scene with district officials, village leaders and local authorities. Officials said the flooding was caused by heavy rainfall in elevated areas, sending large volumes of water rapidly downhill. Locations near streams and other waterways were particularly affected as water levels rose quickly.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and assess damage while preparing assistance for affected residents. Residents and tourists in Cha-om are being urged to remain alert, particularly those staying near waterfalls, streams and low-lying areas. Anyone experiencing continued heavy rain should avoid approaching waterways and other flood-prone locations.
