VIENTIANE, April 9 (Xinhua) -- As the sun blazes relentlessly across Laos, authorities are warning of extreme heat that poses serious health risks and increases the potential for fires, while residents feel its burn as they cope with stifling temperatures in their daily lives.
The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology issued a notice on Thursday warning of extreme heat, forecasting temperatures of up to 43 degrees Celsius across Laos from April 10 to 16. Authorities caution that high temperatures will persist across all regions, with some areas expected to experience particularly intense heat during the afternoons for several consecutive days.
As temperatures climb, residents are feeling the heat on their skin in their daily routines and are finding ways to cool down to cope with the scorching conditions.
"I feel like the heat is getting worse every year. It's as if the sun is burning me every day," said Sing, a street vendor in the Lao capital.
Fanning himself with a small piece of cardboard, Sing explained that even standing still can be exhausting. "Sometimes, even in the morning, it already feels warm and uncomfortable," he added.
As he sells on the streets and watches people walk under the blazing sun without umbrellas, Sing expressed concern for their safety, especially elderly residents. He also hopes that workplaces and schools can reduce outdoor activities to minimize the risk of heat-related illness.
"Since we have to live with these conditions, we need to adapt and protect ourselves from the dangers of extreme heat," he said. "Even simple actions, like sitting in the shade or drinking plenty of water, can make a difference."
Even those who spend most of their time indoors are feeling the impact of the extreme heat. Jang, an office worker in Vientiane, said the weather has become so hot that even sitting in an air-conditioned room can make her sweat. "The air conditioning just can't keep up with the heat these days," she explained.
She added that, living in a hot country like Laos, many people often underestimate the serious health risks posed by extreme heat.
Jang also shared how the heat is affecting her personal plans. "If these high temperatures continue, I'll have to change how we celebrate the Lao New Year. Instead of playing outdoors, we'll celebrate at home to protect myself and my family from heat-related illnesses."
Bounphanh, a 62-year-old resident of Vientiane, said that even walking a short distance under the sun makes him feel dizzy. "Sitting outside my house, enjoying the fresh air and watching the surroundings used to make me feel refreshed by the cool breeze," he said. "But in the past few days, it doesn't feel the same anymore."
From a youth perspective, Sonthichak, a student in Vientiane, expressed concern not only about the health risks of extreme heat but also the potential for fire accidents. He recounted witnessing a house fire last month, caused by a combination of extreme heat and an electrical short circuit.
"Beyond health, I urge everyone to be careful with electricity. Check everything for safety, and take good care of valuables such as phones or laptops. Don't leave them in a hot car, it can trigger a fire," he added. ■
