Thailand Deploys Military for Flood Rescue Operations

Thailand deployed military forces to Chiang Rai due to severe flooding affecting thousands. Since mid-August, rain-related incidents have caused 33 deaths. Local authorities, using boats and helicopters, are conducting rescue operations. Infrastructure challenges, including impassable roads to the airport, are compounded by ongoing heavy rains from Typhoon Yagi.

Thailand deployed military special forces in Chiang Rai on Thursday after overwhelming floods marooned thousands, prompting authorities to initiate rescue operations with boats and helicopters.

Since mid-August, rain-related incidents have claimed the lives of 33 people across Thailand, with nine fatalities recorded in the last week alone in two northern provinces. The adverse weather, attributed to Typhoon Yagi—Asia's most powerful storm this year—has also resulted in 197 fatalities in Vietnam.

Despite flood waters receding in some parts of Mai Sai district, many riverside areas remain submerged. Rescue teams, aided by Thai Navy SEAL special forces, are working tirelessly to rescue trapped residents. The Thai Navy has dispatched nine flat-bottom boats to distribute over a thousand aid packages, and logistical challenges have disrupted flights into and out of Chiang Rai's airport.

(With inputs from agencies.)