The terrifying moment Bangkok’s infinity pools became waterfalls during the catastrophic 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Thailand on March 28, 2025, has become one of the most shocking visual symbols of the disaster. As high-rise luxury hotels swayed dramatically, their iconic rooftop pools transformed into cascading waterfalls, sending torrents of water plummeting down building facades in scenes that have now gone viral worldwide.
The spectacular yet deadly overflow phenomenon
The physics behind the overflow is simple yet terrifying. As the seismic waves moved through Bangkok’s skyscrapers, the massive volume of water in rooftop infinity pools acted like a liquid pendulum, sloshing violently before breaching containment edges. What typically appears as a serene, edge-less pool suddenly became a dangerous waterfall dropping from heights of 30-60 stories.
“I was in the Sky Bar when everything started to shake. The pool water began rolling like an ocean wave before it simply… went over the edge,” described tourist Emma Sullivan, who was at the Lebua State Tower when the 7.7 magnitude earthquake shook Thailand. “People were screaming, trying to grab their belongings before rushing toward stairwells.”
Life-threatening dangers at dizzying heights
The phenomenon created multiple deadly hazards:
- Near-instantaneous flooding of rooftop areas, creating slip hazards with fatal fall potential
- Panic-induced crowd crushes near exits as terrified guests fled
- Electrical hazards as water penetrated lighting systems and outlets
- Structural stresses as thousands of gallons of water penetrated buildings not designed for such water exposure
Hotels most severely impacted
The most dramatic incidents occurred at Bangkok’s premium hotels, including the Banyan Tree with its 61st-floor infinity pool, the Waldorf Astoria’s 16th-floor pool deck, and the Marriott Marquis’ 9th-floor pool, which completely emptied within minutes of the first tremors.
“The water was literally shooting off the edge like a waterfall. I’ve never seen anything like it,” said James Chen, who captured now-viral footage from the Banyan Tree rooftop. His video shows guests clinging to pool furniture as the building continued to sway for nearly 60 seconds as the earthquake hit Bangkok.
Structural damage assessment
Preliminary engineering reports indicate that water damage has compromised electrical systems in at least five major hotels. More concerning are early findings of potential structural weakening in two properties where water penetrated crucial support elements.
“Water intrusion at these heights can cause progressive damage that isn’t immediately visible,” warns Dr. Suchinda Pattanapong, structural engineer with the Thailand Building Safety Institute. “Saltwater from pools is particularly damaging to concrete reinforcement and electrical systems.”
Safety advice for tourists
Authorities have issued urgent guidance for tourists staying in high-rise accommodations:
- Immediately evacuate pool areas at the first sign of tremors, using stairs rather than elevators
- Stay clear of windows and glass features which may shatter during aftershocks
- Follow hotel staff instructions and evacuation protocols without delay
- Keep emergency packs with passports, medication, water, and flashlights readily accessible
The earthquake has prompted renewed safety discussions across Southeast Asia, where high-rise infinity pools have become architectural status symbols. The disaster occurred just as Bangkok’s Motor Show was showcasing new Chinese EV brands, creating a strange juxtaposition of tourism disruption and continued commerce.
As cleanup efforts continue, these dramatic images serve as a powerful reminder of nature’s force – and the unforeseen dangers lurking in even the most luxurious settings. The earthquake has left Thailand’s tourism industry shaken, much like the automotive industry has been revolutionized by new electric vehicles – both representing profound shifts in their respective landscapes.