Houses damaged by flood.   --Photo Laophatthana

Flash flood kills one, others still missing in Luang Prabang

A flash flood struck the northern province of Luang Prabang early on Sunday morning, with one villager known to have died and several others still missing, local media reported.
The sudden flood in Huay Yor village, Chomphet district, followed several hours of continuous heavy rain.
Photos showed a powerful current of water cascading down a hillside, causing extensive damage to the flimsy houses scattered on the sloping ground and leaving large amounts of debris in its wake.
The flash flood rapidly inundated residential areas along the Huay Yor stream, sweeping away parts of houses and people’s belongings.
According to preliminary reports, the incident caused significant damage to homes and other structures, and an unspecified number of local residents were reported missing.
On Tuesday morning, the body of one male victim was discovered. Local authorities are continuing the search for others who are still missing.
People living near rivers and in low-lying areas of northern and central Laos have been put on alert for more flooding and possible landslides due to prolonged heavy rain that is expected to last until at least July 13.
The Meteorology and Hydrology Department has forecast heavy rain in the north of Laos in particular, including Phongsaly, Huaphan, Xiengkhouang, Oudomxay, Bokeo, Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang and Xayabouly provinces.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update July 9, 2025)