Major Evacuation of Elephants in Northern Thailand
In a dramatic response to severe flooding, Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai, Thailand, successfully evacuated 117 elephants on October 4, 2024. The founder, Saengduean "Lek" Chailert, described the operation as the largest evacuation the sanctuary has ever undertaken, highlighting the urgency as floodwaters rose rapidly, trapping many animals and even tourists.
The sanctuary, which houses around 126 elephants and 5,000 other animals, faced a dire situation as torrential rains from Typhoon Yagi led to unprecedented flooding in the region. Videos shared on social media depicted elephants struggling through deep waters, guided by dedicated staff and volunteers. However, despite the successful evacuation of many, 13 adult elephants remained stranded due to a lack of manpower and resources, prompting ongoing rescue efforts.
Impact of Typhoon Yagi and Ongoing Flooding
The flooding in northern Thailand has been exacerbated by recent severe weather, with over 32,000 households affected across 18 provinces, particularly in the north and northeast. Chailert expressed the dire conditions on social media, stating, "The floods are worse than before. The whole region is flooded. Now we have nowhere to go," and called for urgent assistance.
Authorities in Chiang Mai have issued flood warnings as water levels in the Ping River reached dangerous heights, raising concerns for both the animals at the sanctuary and the local communities. The National Parks Department has dispatched officials to assist, but many roads remain impassable due to flooding.
Urgent Need for Assistance and Resources
As the situation develops, the Elephant Nature Park is urgently seeking volunteers and resources, including flat-bottomed boats, to facilitate the evacuation of remaining animals. Many elephants at the sanctuary are blind or injured, complicating rescue efforts. Chailert emphasized the need for immediate help, stating, "We had to help them get to the foot of the mountain. We are in desperate need of help."
The sanctuary, a haven for rescued elephants from the tourism and logging industries, has been a critical resource for conservation efforts in Thailand, where the wild elephant population has dwindled significantly due to various threats. The community's support during this crisis is vital for the survival of these majestic creatures.
