The Sai River breached its banks and flooded commercial areas and residential communities in Muang district of the northern province of Chiang Rai early this morning, due to heavy rainfall since last evening (Friday).
The level of the already swollen river increased so rapidly that officials could not warn residents and businesses in advance, meaning that they did not have enough time to move their valuables to higher ground.
At about 5.15am, it was reported that flood water had receded in some areas, although there is still light rainfall.
In the middle of last night, in San Kong village in Mae Rai sub-district of Mae Chan district, overflows from Mae Rai creek, which flows from Chiang Tung mountain, swept into the village.
Strong currents from the flood water partially tore down the wall of San Kong Temple. A number of food vendors in San Kong market complained that the ingredients that they had prepared for cooking in the morning were swept away by the currents. Road access to the Royally-sponsored Doi Tung project, at the foot of the mountain, was also under water.
The Mae Sai district police said on its webpage this morning that officers have been dispatched to help those affected by flooding.
The flooding in Mae Sai district last night is the second since mid-August.
