The Severity of Natural Disaster Impacts on Waterfall-Based Tourist Sites in Namtok Yong National Park

Abstract

          This research aimed to evaluate the biophysical and psychological impacts of natural disasters on waterfall-based tourist attractions within Namtok Yong National Park, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, and to propose sustainable management strategies. The study employed Sensory Evaluation combined with descriptive statistical analysis, with field data collected from 400 tourists using proportional sampling and time interval sampling methods. The findings revealed that most waterfalls (6 out of 9) experienced moderate levels of biophysical impact. Khlong Chang Waterfall exhibited the highest average impact score (3.18), whereas Nan Pliew Waterfall had the lowest (1.39). The most severe indicators included tree falls caused by heavy rainfall (3.52) and the collapse or death of large trees (3.33). Soil and water-related impacts, such as soil erosion and turbidity, were observed at moderate levels. In terms of psychological impacts, the majority of tourists (68.89%) showed low awareness of disaster-related effects despite evident signs of environmental damage. Overall, the study highlights the vulnerability of waterfall ecosystems to natural disasters, as well as the gap in tourists’ risk perception. Policy recommendations include restricting environmentally disruptive constructions, developing educational materials on natural disaster impacts, and enhancing community participation in resource management. These measures aim to strengthen the foundation for sustainable ecotourism development in the long term.