Tropical depression to bring more heavy rain

A tropical depression will pass over the central and southern provinces from September 24-25, putting some areas at risk of flooding and landslides.

A school in Xekong province that was hit by flooding on September 23. --Photo Xekong Youth Media

People should prepare to move their belongings and animals to safe places in the event of flooding, the central disaster management committee has warned.

The committee ordered provincial authorities to prepare to deal with flooding and landslides, closely monitor river levels and prepare vehicles, food, drinking water and temporary shelters in the event of an emergency.

The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and gusting winds in regions of Attapeu, Champassak, Xekong, Saravan and Savannakhet from September 23-25, with flooding and fallen trees possible in these areas.

From September 24-26 heavy rain and strong winds are expected in northern and central regions, with flooding and landslides possible in Savannakhet, Khammuan, Borikhamxay, Vientiane province, Xaysomboun, Luang Prabang, Xayaboury, Bokeo and Vientiane.

People are advised to keep track of weather forecasts issued by the Meteorology and Hydrology Department and to be ready to cope with weather extremes.

Some areas of Xekong were affected by floods when a depression passed over the province on September 23. Provincial authorities will report on the damage caused when more information becomes available, Xekong Youth Media reported. 

In Saravan province, LaoNgam and Saravan districts also suffered flooding when Tropical Storm Con Son passed over the area on September 10-14.

Hundreds of hectares of farmland, four bridges, animals and houses in LaoNgam district were affected, while one person was killed and some houses were swept away by the floods. The cost of the damage is estimated at more than 140 billion kip, the Saravan newspaper reported.

In Saravan district more than 100 houses were damaged. At least 30 houses were badly damaged, while nine people were injured and an elderly woman died.

Provincial authorities are arranging for temporary houses to be built for people whose houses suffered extensive damage, while repairs are underway to other properties.

Donations of food, drinking water and other essentials worth more than 100 million kip for stricken villagers have been received, along with almost 30 million kip in cash.

By  Times Reporters
(Latest Update September 24, 2021)