Forest Forager Found Dead After Flash Flood in Mae Hong Son

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

A man who went to collect forest products in Mae Hong Son went missing for two days before his body was found lodged between rocks in a stream after being swept away by flash flooding. The incident occurred near Huai Wai, approximately 3 kilometres from the village, following sudden heavy rainfall on 15 September 2025. His disappearance prompted a large-scale search by villagers and authorities.

The search began after Mrs Nga Me reported to the village headman that her husband, Mr Pue, had not returned home after venturing into the forest on the afternoon of 15 September. Villagers initially combed the nearby Lam Soi river without success. At 15:00 on 16 September, Mr Khaneung discovered the missing man’s hat caught on a tree stump in Huai Wai stream.

Following this discovery, villagers, police officers and volunteer security forces from Mueang District joined the search along the stream. Locals on 17 September, reported finding Mr Pue’s body carried by the water and trapped against a tree stump. Officials believe he was swept away by the flash flood on the night of 15 September, his body was recovered and taken to Srisangwan Hospital for autopsy.

Mueang District Chief Major Yuttana Jaoduri stated that the incident highlights the dangers of collecting forest products during heavy rain. He instructed village heads throughout the district to warn residents against entering forests when rainfall occurs upstream. People living near rivers are advised to move to higher ground and wait until water levels recede before attempting to cross.

Authorities stressed that flash floods can occur rapidly and unexpectedly, posing significant risks to those in low-lying areas. The local administration urged villagers to remain vigilant during adverse weather and follow safety precautions to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Key Takeaways

• A man went missing on 15 September 2025 and was found dead in a stream after flash flooding in Mae Hong Son.

• Villagers, police, and volunteer security forces carried out an extensive search to locate him.

• Authorities warned residents to avoid forests and rivers during heavy rain to prevent accidents.

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-09-18