Flash floods have devastated the Elephant Nature Park in northern Thailand, leading to the evacuation of approximately 100 elephants and trapping numerous tourists. The park, located near Chiang Mai, experienced the most severe flooding in its history, with water rising rapidly and forcing a massive rescue operation to save the lives of the elephants.
Dramatic footage and images captured elephants wading through deep floodwaters to reach higher ground, while park staff, known as mahouts, worked tirelessly to guide the animals to safety. Despite the efforts, some elephants remain trapped in their quarters, causing panic among the animals.
The flooding in northern Thailand is a result of heavy rains brought by Typhoon Yagi, the most powerful storm in Asia this year. The situation has been exacerbated by landslides and rising water levels along the Ping River, prompting alerts for potential flooding in the region.
The Elephant Nature Park, a renowned elephant rescue and rehabilitation center, is facing challenges in evacuating the remaining animals due to flooded roads and the need for boats to transport them to safety. The park has issued urgent pleas for volunteers and resources to assist in the evacuation efforts.
Among the animals at risk are sick and injured elephants, some of which require assistance to move to higher ground. The park is also home to thousands of other rescued animals, including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, and rabbits, all of which are in need of evacuation.
Efforts by the Department of National Parks to reach the park have been hampered by flooded roads, highlighting the urgent need for assistance. The declining wild elephant population in Thailand, currently estimated at 3,000-4,000, underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals from threats such as tourism, logging, and human encroachment on their habitats.
