Chiang Mai Floods Force Elephant Evacuations

Severe flash flooding in Chiang Mai, Thailand, has led to the evacuation of over 100 elephants from the Elephant Nature Park, with two elephants tragically drowning. The floods, caused by heavy rain and overflow from the mountains, resulted in significant damage to the sanctuary and surrounding areas, prompting rescuers to guide the elephants to higher ground using ropes. Local authorities reported that the Ping River reached its highest level in 50 years, exacerbating the flooding situation and impacting residents and tourists alike. The director of the sanctuary expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the elephants and vowed to improve evacuation plans for the future. Rescue operations for other animals continue, with many smaller animals still missing, and the region remains under threat of further inundations as the rainy season persists. The Thai government has mobilized resources, including helicopters, to assist in the ongoing rescue efforts.