The incident on August 15 occurred near the Mae Sa waterfall in Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. It is reported that tourists entered an area forbidden to visitors and ignored warning signs.
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The video captures how the water level around the people on the rocks rapidly rises, and the current becomes difficult to overcome in a very short time. Several tourists lose their footing and are swept downstream, while others call for help. One long-haired tourist tries to make his way through the raging water on all fours.
Park staff who rushed to help pulled the tourists to a safe place. It is reported that serious injuries were avoided – people only suffered minor scratches and were given first aid.
Eyewitness Arttie Martin said he was just moments away from being in the water himself.
“It really was a matter of seconds. I was already preparing to take off my shoes, wade into the middle after the foreigners, and take a photo by the waterfall. Just then I heard the officer’s whistle, and immediately after that everything happened as seen in the video. It all happened incredibly fast,” the witness said.
I was already preparing to take off my shoes, wade into the middle after the foreigners, and take a photo by the waterfall.
Sharing the dramatic footage, he emphasized that he wanted not to publicize the experience of those caught in the disaster, but to warn other travelers.
“I share this as a warning to all tourists. Especially during the rainy season, when visiting waterfalls, it is necessary to be extremely careful, observe warning signs, follow staff instructions, and constantly monitor the water’s color, level, and current speed, as conditions can change incredibly quickly,” he said.
According to park staff, the incident occurred around 4:20 p.m. local time. At that time, officers were on duty at different spots near the waterfall. They said they warned tourists to get out of the water just before the sudden flood.
After the water level subsided, the Mae Sa waterfall remained closed to visitors.
The incident occurred in Thailand during the monsoon season, which usually lasts from May to October and brings heavy rains and floods. The Northern Meteorological Center forecasted heavy or very heavy rains in Chiang Mai and other northern areas of the country from August 18–21.
Residents and travelers were warned about the danger of sudden floods, especially in hilly areas, near water bodies, and lowlands. Travelers are also advised to avoid routes prone to flooding.
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