Rising river levels pose increasing threat

Persistent rainfall from northern to central regions will see river levels continue to rise, the Meteorology and Hydrology Department has warned.
The department said the level of the Xebangfay River in Xaybangfay district, Khammuan province now measures 19.14 metres, which is above the danger zone of 18.50 metres. This puts the Xebangfay bridge in Mahaxay district at particular risk.
Elsewhere in the district, the Xebangfay River at Tonhen village now measures 13.32 metres, while the danger level is 13 metres.
Meanwhile, the Xechamphon River in Kengkok village, Champhon district, measures 8.44 metres, just short of the danger zone of 8.5 metres.
Continuing heavy rain over the past couple of weeks has damaged roads in Atsaphon district, Savannakhet province, where local residents and district authorities are working to repair roads that have been washed out. Atsaphon district has experienced torrential rain since the middle of this month, which has increased the level of the Xechamphon and other rivers, causing damage to roads and bridges.
The road leading from the main town in Atsaphon district to Road No. 10 and the road leading to Phak Khaya village are now impassable, although repairs are underway.
Houses near the Xechamphon River have also been inundated, but fortunately no casualties have resulted.
The current weather pattern is forecast to continue. In the northeast, temperatures will range from 19-29 Celsius, while temperatures in the northwest are forecast at 20-32C.
Vientiane will see temperatures of 24-32C, while the range in central areas will be 21-32C, and in the south 22-29 C, the Meteorology and Hydrology Department reported on August 26.
The department said river levels will continue to rise and warned people living close to rivers to move their belongings and their pets to safe ground. Everyone is advised to track reports of river levels and weather forecasts in general.

By Siladda Souliyong
(Latest Update August 27, 2019)