The Ping River has overflowed into the historical site of Wiang Kum Kam at Wat Chedi Liem in Chiang Mai, forcing locals to evacuate to the temple’s hall due to rising floodwaters. The water level at measurement point P.1 near the Nawarat Bridge is beginning to decrease at a rate of 2-4 cm per hour, with the current reading at 4.69 meters.
On September 26, 2024, it was reported that the water level at Wat Chedi Liem, an important ancient site recognized by the Fine Arts Department, has risen approximately 30-40 centimeters, flooding nearby homes as well. More than ten residents have taken refuge in the temple hall for two nights due to the high floodwaters.
Ms. Krong Kaew Mahamit, 69, from Tha Wang Tan, has been staying at the temple with her children and granddaughter. She noted that this year’s flooding is the highest she’s ever seen, with water reaching her waist. Although she elevated her belongings, she is uncertain if they will be safe as water levels are still very high.
Ms. Sunisa Klao Kasetkorn, 43, also evacuated with just a few clothes and her cat, Taro, spending her first night at the temple after water began flooding her single-story house at around 11 PM the previous night.
The water level at the Ping River at P.1 Nawarat Bridge is currently decreasing, with the latest reading at 4.66 meters. However, areas downstream, such as Saraphi and Lamphun, may still face flooding issues as water flows continue to affect them. The Chiang Mai irrigation office plans to use 24 pumps to drain the stagnant water in the city back into the Ping River once levels have sufficiently receded.
Additionally, the Mae Ngat Dam is currently overflowing as it exceeded its storage capacity, leading to a controlled release of 60.30 cubic meters per second. This release aims to maintain safe water levels in the dam and prevent uncontrolled flooding downstream.
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This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
