The Tap Lan tunnel, linking Khao Yai and Thap Lan national parks in Prachin Buri province, has been closed temporarily due to heavy flooding, resulting from heavy rainfall since yesterday (Wednesday).

Highway officials explained today that the closure of the 250-metre long tunnel is necessary for the safety of motorists, because the road in the tunnel is under about 50cm of water due to the overflow of the Phaya Tarn canal.

Emergency services were sent to two villages in Bupram sub-district late last night to rescue numerous villagers who became stranded in their houses as water swept into their villages.

They were also dispatched to Sao Noi waterfall, in Prachantakham district of Prachin Buri, to help a group of tourists who became stranded on the wrong side of a stream when its level rose sharply and the currents strengthened.

The rescuers had to pass a rope across the raging stream to enable the tourists to cross to safety.

Several bamboo rafts, erected in the stream by local traders to cater to tourists, were also washed away by the strong currents.