Stranded tourists rescued from flooded resort in Thailand

Stranded foreign tourists were rescued from a flooded resort in Thailand.

The holidaymakers were trapped at the Pai River Resort as heavy rain caused the Pai River to overflow in Mae Hong Son province on September 25.

Pai District chief Anek Pantayom said they received a rescue request at 6am.

Rescue teams were sent to the resort to evacuate both tourists and Thai staff. They were taken to shelter at the Wat Pa Kham temple.

Anek said: 'The latest update is that assistance has been provided to affected tourists. The Pai River has started to recede. However, I urge residents to remain vigilant in risky areas. If the water level starts to rise, they should immediately flee their homes to prevent unexpected accidents.'

Police Lieutenant Colonel Suwit Boonyaphen of the Mae Hong Son Tourist Police said continuous heavy rain in recent days caused the Pai River to burst its banks.

He said: 'There were many accommodations, hotels, and resorts next to the Pai River. Many tourists, especially foreigners, were affected by the flooding. Tourist Police Division 4, together with local agencies, immediately provided assistance to evacuate stranded tourists and distributed drinking water, food, and clothing.'

Authorities said the floods were expected to clear if there was no further rainfall.

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are in their annual monsoon rainy season which sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms in the afternoon leading to widespread flash floods.