- Authorities warned tourists to leave the water shortly before the flash flood struck, as they were in a restricted zone at the Mae Sa Waterfall in Chiang Mai on August 15.
- The incident occurred at around 4:20 p.m. local time on August 15.
- Footage shows tourists stranded as the water rapidly rose around them, with some attempting to crawl or swim out while others panicked.
- Park rangers arrived to rescue the group, who reportedly suffered only minor scratches and were given first aid.
- Raging currents swept several tourists downstream, while others screamed for help as the water surged unexpectedly.
- Authorities said water levels have receded, but the Mae Sa waterfall remains closed to the public due to safety concerns.
- The Northern Meteorological Centre warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across the northern region, including Chiang Mai, from August 18 to 21.
- Residents were urged to be vigilant for flash floods, especially in hillside areas near waterways and low-lying areas.
A group of tourists taking selfies at Mae Sa Waterfall in Chiang Mai were caught in a flash flood on August 15, leading to a dramatic rescue by park rangers.
The vacationers reportedly ignored warning signs and entered a restricted area, despite local police advising them to leave shortly before the flood struck.
Footage shows the tourists stranded as water rapidly rose around them, with some attempting to crawl or swim to safety while others panicked and screamed for help.
Park rangers arrived on the scene to rescue the group, who suffered only minor scratches and received first aid.67
Bystander Arttie Martin, who shared the video on Facebook, described the incident as a matter of split seconds and emphasized the importance of heeding warnings during the rainy season.
The Northern Meteorological Centre had previously warned of heavy rainfall in the region, urging residents to be vigilant for flash floods, particularly in hillside areas and low-lying regions.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by nature, especially when tourists disregard safety precautions.
“It was truly a matter of split seconds,” Martin recounted, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Local authorities continue to stress the importance of safety in natural areas, especially during adverse weather conditions.
“The incident occurred on August 15, when tourists ignored warning signs and entered a restricted area at the waterfall. Bystander Arttie Martin, who filmed the event, emphasized the danger, stating, "It was truly a matter of split seconds" as the water surged unexpectedly.”
The Daily Beast
