CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – Forest fires in northern Thailand continued to burn as satellite data showed 136 hotspots in Chiang Mai, a slight decline from more than 200 the previous day.
Current wildfire situation
On 28 March 2023, authorities reported 136 active fire hotspots in Chiang Mai, bringing the cumulative total since the start of the year to 2,090. This figure represented a decrease of 735 hotspots compared with the same period a year earlier.
The data came from the Thai space agency GISTDA, captured at 02:38 by the Suomi-NPP satellite. Officials said the situation remained tense because many fires were still active across the province.
Distribution of fire hotspots
The hotspots were scattered across several districts, including 18 in Mae Tang, 18 in Samoeng and 18 in Chiang Dao. Additional clusters were detected in other areas such as Chao Phraya and Doi Saket.
According to the distribution pattern, most fires were concentrated in the northern and western parts of the province. Authorities noted that this concentration complicated both monitoring and firefighting operations in the affected terrain.
Government response measures
Local administrations were instructed to inspect all affected zones and report back on the evolving situation. A consolidated situation report was to be submitted to the provincial authorities by 12:00 on the same day.
Officials stated that these steps formed part of a broader plan to combat the fires and limit damage in Chiang Mai. The measures were aimed at improving coordination and ensuring a timely response to new or expanding hotspots.
Long-term impacts and health concerns
The cumulative number of fire hotspots since 1 January 2023 pointed to a worrying trend, with potential long-term consequences for the environment. Officials warned that repeated burning could degrade forest ecosystems and surrounding landscapes.
Authorities also cautioned that continuing fires could severely affect air quality and pose health risks for local residents. They stressed that smoke and haze from the wildfires might aggravate respiratory problems and other pollution-related illnesses.
Public debate and local concerns
The unfolding situation raised questions among residents about the adequacy of the current response. Many locals were encouraged to follow official updates and consider the broader challenges posed by this recurring natural disaster.
“What do you think about the current situation of the wildfires in Chiang Mai? Do you believe that the authorities’ measures are sufficient to fight the fires?”
said Chiang Mai News, inviting readers to share their views on the response to the crisis.
The outlet called on the public to discuss the difficulties created by the ongoing fires and the risks they posed for communities across the province. Locals were urged to reflect on how best to address both the immediate emergency and its longer-term impacts.