Tourists swept by sudden flash flood while selfie-shooting at Chiang Mai waterfall
A group of visitors taking selfies at Mae Sa Waterfall in Chiang Mai were caught by a flash flood after entering a restricted area, but they escaped with only minor injuries.
Visitors to the Mae Sa Waterfall in Chiang Mai entered a prohibited zone on August 15 to pose for selfies, disregarding clear signage. A sudden flash flood surged through the river, quickly surrounding the tourists and forcing some downstream while others called out for assistance. Park rangers responded, pulling the group to safety and treating minor scratches with basic first aid.
Witness Arttie Martin recounted that he was about to join the crowd when a whistle blew and the water rushed in within moments. Officials confirmed the incident occurred around 4:20 p.m., and the waterfall remains shut while water levels recede. The Northern Meteorological Centre has issued a forecast of heavy to very heavy rain across northern Thailand through August 21, urging residents and travelers to stay alert for flash-flood risks.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the danger of ignoring safety warnings at natural attractions, especially during Thailand's monsoon season.
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