Aranyaprathet: A storm struck the Aranyaprathet District in Sa Kaeo Province, leading to the collapse of a massive Bodhi tree, over 100 years old, onto several homes in Soi Rong Lueai. A 69-year-old woman narrowly escaped with her life when her house was completely destroyed.

According to Thai News Agency, the storm, accompanied by heavy rain, occurred in the evening, causing significant damage. The most severe impact was on the home of Aunt Kanchana Raoprasert, who, along with her son, managed to escape just minutes before the tree crushed their house, obliterating it and damaging all their household appliances. Aunt Kanchana recounted that dark clouds formed quickly, followed by the storm, which caused the nearby Bodhi tree to tilt ominously.

The home of Ta Bua Sri Mongkol, aged 72, also suffered damage, with the roof being struck by a branch of the falling tree. Local disaster prevention and relief officers have since inspected the site, provided initial assistance, and assessed other large trees in the area to prevent further incidents. Efforts are underway to remove debris and manage the Bodhi tree branches more effectively.

Aunt Kanchana shared that numerous ancient Bodhi trees remain in the area, revered by the villagers as sacred due to the belief that ‘Luang Tia,’ a protective spirit, resides within them. The villagers attribute past accidents involving contractors who attempted to cut down these trees to the protective power of Luang Tia, reinforcing their reluctance to disturb the trees despite the risks they pose.