Hey, nature lovers. If you plan to pay a visit to Khao Yai National Park, take a step back. The park issued an announcement declaring the temporary closure of some of its popular sites since severe flooding is sweeping across the eastern region of Thailand. Some of the local communities really need some morale boosters because some areas have been seriously required to evacuate.

Chaiya Huaihongthong, Superintendent of Khao Yai National Park, mentioned that they decided to close the Takhro Falls and Sai Yai River in Prachinburi province on Monday, July 29th. Then, a day later, Nang Rong Falls in Nakhon Nayok was closed. The heavy rain has become dangerous flash flooding, especially at the Kaeng Hin Phoeng rapids that has suspended rafting activities.

The floodwaters have not only inundated the park, but in Prachinburi’s Saphan Hin subdistrict, several communities were cut off. The military and rescue teams leaped into action, helping to evacuate some 200 trapped households stuck in the floods. The Ruam Katanyu rescue unit expressed continued vigilance, particularly at the base of Khao Yai in Prachatakham district, where more flooding could be on the way.

The Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, is expected to meet with the Royal Irrigation Department next week to discuss how to support the flooded people and measures they can take to ensure the situation does not happen again.

So, any plans to head to Khao Yai anytime soon? Maybe hold off until the weather dies down, and it’ll get back to its beautiful and safe state. Stay safe out there!