VIENTIANE, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Laos is facing continued heavy rainfall, with authorities warning of flash floods and landslides as flooding has already affected several communities and areas.
The Lao weather bureau on Tuesday issued a warning about flooding and landslides across the country as heavy rainfall continues, particularly in Phongsaly, Huaphan, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, Xaysomboun, Xayaboury, Bolikhamxay, Khammuan, Savannakhet and Attapeu provinces. Authorities also urged residents to remain vigilant and prepare for possible flash floods, while closely monitoring rising water levels as some areas have already reached warning levels or experienced flooding.
The warning comes as several areas are already dealing with the effects of prolonged rainfall. In Khammuan province, continuous rain since early August has caused tributaries to swell and overflow, flooding temples, health centers, hospitals, farmland, gardens and homes. Local authorities reported that 37 villages of Nongbok district in Khammuan province have been affected, involving 4,051 families and 19,045 people. About 5,726 hectares of productive land have been affected, while 15 roads and three bridges have been flooded and two roads damaged.
In Savannakhet province, local authorities inspected flood-affected areas along the Xe Bang Fai River in Xayboury district on Aug. 14 and delivered relief supplies to affected residents. Heavy rainfall from Aug. 4 to 13 caused the rivers to rise significantly, flooding farmland and homes in 29 villages and affecting 2,992 families.
Officials also urged district and village authorities to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent waterborne diseases and protect residents in downstream areas.
Meanwhile, Lao capital Vientiane is strengthening preparations to manage increased water levels and drainage during the rainy season. On Aug. 14, Lao Minister of Agriculture and Environment Linkham Douangsavanh, accompanied by ministry officials, inspected sluice gates, drainage pumps and water-level monitoring stations along the Mekong River and its tributaries. The inspection aimed to assess the readiness of the city's drainage system and strengthen water management during periods of heavy rainfall.
Linkham also called for comprehensive water management and drainage planning to support agricultural production and prevent flooding in residential and farming areas.
With further heavy rainfall forecast over the coming days, authorities across affected provinces are continuing to monitor water levels and prepare for possible flooding, landslides and other weather-related impacts. ■
