Tourists were swept downstream by a flash flood at Mae Sa Waterfall in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on August 15. The incident occurred at Doi Suthep-Pui National Park when visitors were on rocks in the water.
Video footage shows the group struggling against strong currents as the water rapidly rose. Several individuals were seen holding onto each other in an attempt to stay upright before being carried away by the force of the water. One tourist was seen struggling to move through the current while others cried out for help.
Park rangers intervened and assisted the group, who reportedly sustained only minor scratches and received first aid. A witness preparing to enter the water for a photo heard a park officer's whistle moments before the flash flood, describing the event as happening in "split seconds."
The witness shared the footage as a caution to travelers regarding the rapid changes in conditions at waterfalls during Thailand's rainy season. He advised exercising extra caution, observing warnings and instructions from staff, and monitoring water levels and current speeds.
Access to Mae Sa Waterfall was restricted following the flash flood. This event is one of several recent incidents involving risky behavior at waterfalls. Previously, a tourist climbed over a safety barrier at Iguazu Falls in Brazil to retrieve a cellphone, and others have been recorded crossing barriers to recover personal items or for photos.