By Panarat Thepgumpanat and Chayut Setboonsarng
Thailand faces a devastating flooding crisis as military special forces are deployed in Chiang Rai to rescue thousands marooned by the floods. At least 33 people have lost their lives in Thailand due to rain-related incidents, with nine fatalities this week alone in northern provinces impacted by Typhoon Yagi, the strongest storm to hit Asia this year. In neighboring Vietnam, the death toll has reached 197.
The situation in Chiang Rai remains critical as flood waters recede in some areas but many riverside settlements are still submerged. Local authorities, with the support of Thai Navy SEAL special forces, are working tirelessly to rescue those trapped inside their homes. The flooding has also affected Chiang Rai city, causing key roads and urban areas to be inundated.
With the airport in Chiang Rai inaccessible due to rising waters, authorities are planning to use Thai Air Force helicopters to deliver food and water to the 3,000 people stranded in the Ban Kwai Wua Dam area. The Office of National Water Resources has issued a warning to 36 provinces, including Bangkok, for potential flash floods.
This crisis underscores the urgent need for disaster preparedness and efficient response mechanisms. As investors and financial markets continue to monitor the situation in Thailand, the impact of the flooding on infrastructure and supply chains could have far-reaching consequences.