Pictures courtesy of responders

A large grass fire spread rapidly up a hillside in Sattahip district, Chonburi province, on the evening of 12 January 2026, prompting an emergency response involving 12 fire engines. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky, raising fears the blaze could reach nearby homes and causing widespread alarm among residents in the area.

Municipal officials in Samaesan subdistrict received the first alert at 5.30pm, reporting a grass fire burning across a wide area before advancing towards the hillside near Ban Nong Krachong. The fire expanded quickly due to dry conditions, with flames moving through tall grass and dense vegetation on the slopes.

As the situation escalated, authorities coordinated reinforcements from neighbouring agencies to contain the blaze. Fire engines were dispatched from Sattahip Naval Base, Klet Kaew Subdistrict Municipality, Sattahip Town Municipality, Phlu Ta Luang Town Municipality and Khet Udomsak Subdistrict Municipality, bringing the total response to 12 fire engines, plus supporting vehicles.

Firefighters worked to establish containment lines and douse advancing flames, but challenging terrain and the extent of dry fuel complicated efforts. By 8.40pm, officials confirmed the fire had not yet been fully brought under control, with crews continuing suppression operations into the night.

The affected area is largely covered by dry grass and overgrown forest, conditions that can accelerate fire spread during the dry season. The blaze’s proximity to residential zones heightened concern among villagers, many of whom monitored the response amid fears of further escalation.

Preliminary assessments suggest the fire may have been sparked by an open flame that spread to dry grass, though no definitive cause has been confirmed. Local authorities stated that police would be asked to investigate the origin of the fire and identify anyone involved in illegal burning. The incident underscores ongoing risks associated with vegetation fires in dry periods, particularly in areas where grassland meets forested hillsides.

The fire was fully contained by 10:00 pm, but emergency services remain on alert to prevent flare-ups and protect surrounding communities. Officials said operations would continue over night to monitor the fire and to ensure the area is safe.

Key Takeaways

• A grass fire spread on a Sattahip hillside 12 January 2026, causing heavy smoke and public concern.

• 12 fire engines from multiple agencies were deployed, but the blaze was not fully contained until 10.00pm.

• Authorities believe the fire may have started from an open flame and plan a police investigation.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now 2026-01-13

 

 

I was there Sunday, really nice area, people do fly tip there sometimes and try to burn it