UDON THANI, THAILAND – A woman was injured during the Songkran water festival after being hit by ice-filled water thrown from a pickup truck, prompting warnings against using hard objects in water fights.
Incident in Nong Prajak Park
The incident took place on 13 April around 1 p.m. in Nong Prajak Park in Udon Thani, near the popular area by the fountain tunnel. According to her own account, the woman was taking part in the usual Songkran water play when a passing pickup truck sprayed water into the crowd.
Water from the vehicle hit her directly, turning the festive atmosphere abruptly into a medical emergency. Witnesses reported that the vehicle continued along the route as the injured woman received help at the scene.
Ice Cubes Turned into Dangerous Projectiles
According to a report by the local Facebook page “Udon Post”, there were solid ice cubes mixed into the water that was sprayed. As the water was thrown with force, the ice pieces were carried along and struck the woman on the forehead, causing a laceration.
The impact turned what would normally have been a harmless splash into a painful blow. The report emphasized that the frozen cubes acted like hard objects rather than harmless water.
Injury and Narrow Escape
The wound needed to be stitched, according to the report. Medical attention was required to close the cut on her forehead.
Fortunately, no critical areas such as the eyes or temples were hit, preventing a far more serious outcome. The situation was described as a narrow escape from potentially severe injury.
Warnings from Media and Community Pages
Following the incident, local media and community pages issued warnings not to put ice cubes or other hard objects into water containers used for Songkran. They stressed that such additions pose an unnecessary risk to participants.
The reasoning shared in these posts was clear: under pressure, pieces of ice can act like small stones and become dangerous projectiles.
“Under pressure, pieces of ice can act like small stones and become dangerous projectiles.”
said local community pages, in their warnings.
Appeal to Parents and Guardians
Authorities called on parents and guardians to closely supervise children during water battles. They urged adults to ensure that youngsters do not use objects that could cause harm.
Officials also reminded the public that Songkran should remain a safe and joyful cultural celebration, and that reckless behavior must be avoided.
“Songkran should remain a safe and joyful cultural celebration, and reckless behavior must be avoided.”
said authorities, appealing for caution.
Outlook: Songkran Continues – Also in Pattaya
As celebrations continued nationwide, large crowds were expected in Pattaya for the Wan Lai events on 18 and 19 April along Beach Road and in surrounding areas. The coastal city prepared for heavy turnout during the holiday peak.
Official agencies announced strengthened safety measures there to manage traffic and crowds and to prevent risky behavior during the busiest days of the festival. They aimed to balance festive spirit with public safety throughout the extended Songkran period.