Water expected to be drained in just two days
PUBLISHED : 27 Sep 2024 at 11:21
CHIANG MAI – Flooding from runoff originating at Doi Suthep has impacted Chiang Mai University, exacerbating the city’s current flood crisis. However, water levels in the Ping River have remained relatively stable.
Social media updates reveal floodwaters inundating the campus, situated at the base of the lush Doi Suthep mountain.
Kuakul Manasamphansakul, the chief of the provincial irrigation office, confirmed that recent rains on Doi Suthep have resulted in increased runoff.
In response, the university in Muang district has closed several flooded roads and advised staff and students to relocate vehicles to higher ground while ensuring that campus access remains unaffected.
Chiang Mai University is the latest area to experience flooding in the city, enduring challenges since Tuesday due to persistent rainfall, even as the campus is distanced from the Ping River.
Chiang Mai railway station is also affected by flooding.
The Ping River was recorded at 4.23 metres deep at Naowarat Bridge at 9am, showing a slight rise from 4.19 metres two hours earlier.
The Chiang Mai Municipality has issued a red flag warning as many downtown locations, including the railway station, remain submerged, and sandbags have been set up to bolster riverbanks.
Officials estimate that approximately three million cubic metres of floodwater have accumulated in the city. Kuakul indicated that it is expected to take around two days to fully drain the flooded areas.
Chiang Mai airport remains operational and advises travelers to access the airport via Highway 11, known as the Super Highway, and Nimmanhaemin Road.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to visit Chiang Rai on Friday and Chiang Mai on Sunday to conduct flood inspections, as confirmed by her aide.
