Massive Fire Guts Store in Udon Thani, Causing Damage Exceeding 50 Million Baht

Picture courtesy of Khoasod.

A devastating fire tore through a three-storey plastic kitchenware and furniture store in the heart of Udon Thani on the night of 13 June, causing damages estimated at more than 50 million baht. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.

The incident occurred at approximately 21:30 along the Udon Thani-Nong Bua Lamphu ring road, within Udon Thani municipality. Police Lieutenant Colonel Phao Saengkongphlee from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station received the emergency call and quickly coordinated with multiple firefighting units from the municipal authorities of Udon Thani, Nong Samrong and Udon Thani International Airport.

Udon Thani Governor Rachan Sunhua, along with Udon Thani Mayor Kittikorn Teekathananon, senior police officials, and rescue volunteers from the Udon Sawang Methatham Foundation, were present at the scene as emergency crews battled the inferno.

The fire engulfed three commercial units used for storing and selling plastic kitchen goods and furniture. Firefighters deployed multiple fire engines to control the flames, which spread rapidly due to the highly flammable nature of the plastic products. The structure also served as a warehouse, further fuelling the blaze. Four vehicles, including a six-wheeled truck and several pickup trucks, parked in and around the premises were also consumed by the fire.

The road was cordoned off, and emergency crews worked to contain the fire for several hours. Heavy rainfall aided efforts to bring the flames under control.

The shop owner, Mr Silchai, also 50, stated that the store, which opened in 2005, was closed for the night and no staff were staying inside. Four employees, including himself, live in a nearby residence. He was driving home when he received a call from staff reporting the blaze. He confirmed that around 40 million baht’s worth of stock was inside the premises, with the total damage, including the building and vehicles, estimated at around 50 million baht.

Udon Thani Governor Rachan said an environmental team was dispatched to assess potential impacts on the surrounding area. Fortunately, no homes are located close to the fire site, but residents experiencing irritation from smoke or fumes were urged to report it to authorities.

Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Forensic officials will conduct a detailed examination to confirm the exact cause.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-14