Heavy rains from a high-pressure trough hovering over northern Thailand again caused flash flooding, and water overflowed into many areas of Chiang Rai yesterday.

Water overflowed at several points on Phahonyothin Road from Ban Nang Lae, Nang Lae Subdistrict, to in front of Mae Fah Luang University, Tha Sut Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District, causing severe traffic congestion. Officials had to close two lanes.

Flash floods in Doi Pong Phra Bat, Ban Du Subdistrict, overflowed onto Phahonyothin Road in front of Rai Rajabhat University, causing even more traffic congestion. Police officers had to close two lanes and allow cars to drive in opposite directions in the remaining two lanes.

flooding Chiang Rai — Water flooded Phahonyothin Road in front of Chiang Rai Rajabhat University – Chiang Rai Times Drone Image.

Pol. Col. Ananjak Kanoknaphawat, Superintendent of Ban Du Police Station, ordered police officers to control traffic at the intersection in front of Chiang Rai Rajabhat University.

Many smaller sedans and motorcycles had stalled due to water flooding their engines. Officers helped move the vehicles out of the way to avoid obstructing traffic. The heavy rain also caused the canals to overflow in Ban Du Muang Mai, flooding the roads and many low-lying communities.

After a fire broke out at the B-Quick at Big-C in Ban Du Subdistrict, power was also cut off to communities. Firefighters were called to the scene and quickly extinguished the fire, which damaged several service bays.

The Provincial Power Authority restored power to the area shortly after extinguishing the fire.

Meanwhile, Authorities have issued a fresh warning for more wet weather from Tuesday to Thursday, which has been reeling from floods over the past few weeks.

The Meteorological Department predicted heavy rain and gusty winds for the northern provinces over the next two days before tapering off on Friday.