Chiang Mai Floods: Heavy Rain Causes Widespread Damage and Rescues

Heavy rainfall in Chiang Mai and Hang Dong, Thailand, on the night of May 17, 2025, caused significant flash flooding. Areas around Central Festival Chiangmai Airport and the community of Si Ping Mueang were particularly hard hit. Floodwaters, originating from Doi Suthep mountain, submerged numerous motorcycles parked in a shopping mall's parking garage. Rescue crews from Hang Dong waded through the floodwaters to help residents trapped in their homes. One resident, a woman in her 60s, described the experience: "The water rose so quickly! It was terrifying. I'm grateful for the rescuers who helped me escape." The Hang Dong municipality issued a warning for low-lying areas near the Mae Ta Chang stream, advising residents to move their belongings to higher ground. Water levels reached a critical 2.5 meters in some areas. By the next morning, the floodwaters had begun to recede as the rain stopped. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of flash flooding during the rainy season.