Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army is rushing to help flood victims in Phayao Mengrai District, Chiang Rai Province. The military is actively supporting the response to the flood crisis affecting five districts in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, continuous heavy rain since early morning on June 27, 2015, has led to flash floods and mudslides in several parts of Chiang Rai Province, with Phayao Mengrai District experiencing significant rainfall of 317.5 millimeters. This has caused severe damage, particularly to houses near Khun Mae Pao Stream.
The Disaster Relief Center of the 37th Military Circle has been mobilized by the Royal Thai Army to dispatch disaster relief personnel, a medical team, military police, and essential equipment, including motorized flat-bottomed boats and military trucks. They are working alongside government agencies in Chiang Rai Province and the Chiang Rai Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office. Efforts are concentrated on evacuating vulnerable groups such as patients, the elderly, and young children from high-risk areas to safety. Additionally, first aid and basic health care services are being provided, and officials are surveying the affected areas to ensure prioritized assistance.
Reports from the incident command center indicate that the flood crisis spans five districts: Phaya Mengrai, Wiang Chai, Chiang Saen, Wiang Chiang Rung, and Thoeng. The floods have impacted over 4,400 households, severed three roads, affected two hospitals, and damaged approximately 500 rai of agricultural land. Mae Pao Subdistrict in Phaya Mengrai District is particularly affected, with 3,705 households flooded and significant damage to infrastructure, including the subdistrict health promotion hospital. Tad Khuan and Mae Tam Subdistricts have also suffered from severe flash floods. With continuous rainfall, the situation remains critical, prompting the province to enforce 24-hour monitoring and prepare resources and personnel for ongoing response efforts.