Picture courtesy of Kaoded.

 

Authorities in Chaiyaphum province have issued an urgent warning to parents to closely supervise their children during the school holidays, following the drowning of a young boy in a flash flood-swollen stream.

 

The incident occurred in Ban Bung Wian, Village 4, Pong Nok subdistrict, Thep Sathit district. A primary school pupil, currently on school break, reportedly slipped away from home to play in the water with friends near a weir where flash floodwaters were flowing. The child was swept away and drowned despite efforts to rescue him.

 

This incident comes as the Thai Meteorological Department has issued repeated warnings about ongoing summer storms and heavy rainfall throughout May, particularly in northeastern provinces including Chaiyaphum. Flash floods from the Phang Hoei mountain range have continued to surge through several districts, including areas in and around Sai Thong National Park in Nong Bua Rawe district.

 

Local authorities report that runoff from the mountains has caused water levels to rise dangerously in nearby villages. The weir where the child drowned had been affected by this flooding, making the area particularly hazardous.

 

Provincial officials are now appealing to all parents and guardians to be extra vigilant during the school holiday period, especially in areas prone to flash flooding. The recent fatality marks the first child drowning in Chaiyaphum this term brea, and officials fear more could follow if precautions are not taken.

 

“Please ensure that children do not go near rivers, streams, or flooded areas unattended,” a spokesperson for the province said. “The danger is very real and ongoing.”

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-04.

 

 

 

 

Not just supervise their children but also teach them how to swim