Uncovering the Source of the Mae Sai Flood: Satellite Images Reveal the Shocking Truth Behind the Muddy Deluge

JISTDA opens satellite images Clearly highlights the Mae Sai flood Where did the huge mud come from? After a continuous rain fell and only the damage remained.

On September 27, 2024 the Facebook page GISTDA, Agency for the Development of Geoinformatics and Space Technologies (Public Organization) Post about the flooding that occurred in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, which left behind a huge amount of mud, as well as revealing satellite images to show clearly. Mae Flood Do you know where so many clones come from?

He reported that the flooding occurred in Mae Sai, where a lot of mud came from, and the rain has been falling harder than usual in the northern region of the country since July this year. This causes the soil along the mountains to gradually accumulate water. Continuous heavy rains occurred in the catchments of the Sai and Kok rivers until September 8, 2024. As a result, the water level in the river rose and overflowed the banks, flooding many areas of Chiang Rai province.

Especially in Mae Sai District Previously, the city had experienced floods 6 times in 2024, the last time in mid-September. There was a flash flood flowing down the river. causing houses, shops, fresh produce markets, agricultural areas near the river has received severe damage. Currently, even though the flood has passed, in some areas villagers are still unable to enter their homes due to the problem of the large quantities of sediment and mud that the flood left behind.

The water flowing down the river was reported to contain wood chips, logs and sewage. However, as the water subsided, a large amount of sediment, mud and dirt appeared in various places. people’s homes Near the river, especially in the foothill areas. In some places, mud more than 2 meters high was deposited.

#Geography of Mae Sai City

If you consider the geography Mae Sai city is located at the foot of a mountain and near the river that flows from the mountainous region. At the same time, a geological study found that the area around the city of Mae Sai Mainly on both sides of the river near the border checkpoint between Thailand and Myanmar. It is an area where sediment has accumulated since the past.

Due to the city’s location and topography, water flows from the river’s sources. He has natural competence and strength. The river extends into the mountainous area that receives water in the river, which is mainly located in Myanmar, about 80%, and only 20% extends into the lowland areas in the Mae Sai-Tachileik area.

Under normal conditions, this type of topography tends to bring abundance to the area. with various minerals mixed with sediments in the river However, the context of human life today has changed a lot compared to before. A survey conducted by Thai academics found that the Mae Sai watershed area has now changed from a forest to an agricultural area. Including many mines. It also decreases the ability of forests to slow down and store water.

#Open tests on satellite images

The evidence is clear with detailed satellite images. Image captured on September 13, 2024 near the border with Myanmar. In the Mae Sai district which represents only a small part of the river’s total catchment area, many landslides that appeared reddish-brown in color were found. It contrasts sharply with the green of the forest or agricultural land.

Each track is approximately 20 to 30 meters wide, equivalent to a four-lane road, and tens to hundreds of meters long. Varies depending on the area This image reflects one of the reasons for the large amount of muddy sediment that has accumulated in the area below.

#Lessons taken

Every loss brings with it experiences and learnings for survival. Satellite imagery is just one tool to understand the big picture. But the most important thing is the implementation. Continue towards effective management

Furthermore, the geospatial data also reveals that there are many more villages in Thailand. which is at risk of natural disasters like what happened to Mae Sai. And it has happened to Thailand many times in the past. Therefore, be aware of the risks in your area and adapt to the context of that area. Therefore, it is important to be able to live in harmony with nature.

Images of the damage caused by the floods that are about to pass in Chiang Rai province. It has been replaced by images of cooperation and kindness from all over. Convey encouragement to our brothers and sisters who are victims of floods in Chiang Rai Province and other areas. The team would like to encourage people in the area to recover quickly.

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