BANGKOK (The Nation/Asia News network) - Tourists and residents fled to higher ground as a resort and homes in Chiang Mai's Hang Dong district were hit by flash floods from forest runoff early Thursday (Oct 12) morning.

The affected residents were awoken at around 4am as floodwaters from the swollen Mae Tha Chang River flooded their homes.

Thai reporter Chatchawal Jaiphrom, who was among those affected, described the waist-deep waters as the "worst flooding in 15 years".

Residents set up tents on higher grounds when the floodwater did not subside.

Chiang Mai Governor Pawin Chamniprasart led officials to inspect the flood damage at 8.30am on Thursday.

A landslide hit the neighbouring province of Lamphun on Wednesday evening.

A week of heavy rain has pelted the country on the heels of a tropical storm that inundated much of northern Thailand in September. The rainy season typically ends by November.

Earlier this week, the popular Erawan Falls in Thailand's Kanchanaburi province, was partially closed to tourists due to dangerously high water levels, reported website of Khaosod English.

Only two of the world-famous fall's seven tiers remain open to visitors, and no swimming is allowed, the Erawan National Park announced on Monday (Oct 9).

"Currently the water level in the Erawan Falls is very high. Swimming is prohibited for tourists' safety. Only the first and second levels are open for visitors," the announcement said.

Rain is forecast in all regions of Thailand through Saturday, with scattered rains over most of Bangkok.

Heavy winds and flooding are possible in some areas, according to the Thai Meteorological Department.