BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has issued urgent directives to manage severe flooding in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, while on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Monaco. The flooding, triggered by a surge of water from Myanmar into the Sai River, breached temporary barriers near Phrom Wihan Temple.
The Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Public Health to deploy field teams to monitor the health of affected residents and collect water samples amid concerns about contamination. Temporary shelters have been set up at Phrom Wihan Temple, the Mae Sai District auditorium, and the Mae Sai Municipal Office. Residents still living along the riverbank have been urged to relocate for their safety.
Mae Sai District Chief Warayut Khomboon reported that floodwaters carried debris, including logs and weeds, which blocked a bridge and worsened local flooding. Authorities are clearing the blockage and reinforcing barriers with more sandbags. Once water levels subside, officials plan to negotiate with the remaining riverbank households to relocate, allowing for the construction of a permanent flood embankment and widening of the river to reduce future risk.
Health officials are monitoring reports of skin rashes among residents, believed to be linked to contaminated water. The Ministry of Public Health continues to assess conditions in the Sai and Kok Rivers and is working to prevent further health impacts.
Provincial governors across northern Thailand have been instructed to stay alert and coordinate with local agencies, military units, and public health teams. If necessary, disaster zones are to be declared immediately to ensure rapid response and deployment of resources. (NNT)
