Thai Football Coach Stuck on Roof Amid Flash Floods, Draws on Cave Survival Experience

In a shocking turn of events, Ekkapol Chantawong, the coach who captivated the world when he and his young Thai football team were trapped in a cave for nearly three weeks in 2018, has found himself facing another life-threatening situation. This time, he’s stuck on his roof in northern Thailand, braving flash floods triggered by Typhoon Yagi.

Ekkapol, who is now based in Mae Sai, told AFP that the sudden rise of floodwaters on Tuesday morning left him and his family with no time to escape. As the waters continued to rise, he was forced onto the roof of his house, where he spent the night alongside his girlfriend and her aunt.

Despite the harrowing experience, Ekkapol remained calm, drawing on the lessons he learned during the cave rescue. “I was scared, but I told myself I had to be calm. Wait and assess the situation,” he said.

The floodwaters have since receded, allowing Ekkapol to reach the ground floor of his house. However, the strong current outside still prevents him and his family from leaving. “I do not think it is different. First, we have to focus and start solving the problem we are facing,” he said.

Ekkapol’s ability to remain composed and think clearly has been credited with helping him and his team survive the cave ordeal. His experience has taught him valuable lessons that he’s now applying to his latest predicament. “I do not feel more pressure with this stranding. I see more of a way out,” he said.

When asked if he could imagine facing a third such experience, Ekkapol laughed, “It’s hard to say. We can’t say what will be, but I hope I don’t have to go up on the roof again tonight.”

As the world continues to grapple with the devastating impact of Typhoon Yagi, Ekkapol’s story serves as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of those affected by natural disasters.