September 12, 2024
VIENTIANE – Luang Prabang authorities are advising people in low-lying areas to prepare to move their belongings to a safer place, after flooding has already affected numerous houses and shops.
Provincial authorities said on Wednesday that the Mekong River and its tributaries, namely the Bak, Khan, Ou, Xeim and Xaeng rivers, are continuing to rise and have reached the flood warning level in more places.
According to the latest reports, the river level in Luang Prabang now stands at 17.5 metres, meaning further flooding could occur if it rises any higher.
The Department of Meteorology reports that the river level is nearing the critical threshold of 18.3 metres. Forecasts predict a rise to 18.26 metres on September 12 and a further increase to 19.12 metres by September 13.
Various government agencies including public security officials are providing vehicles and other forms of assistance to help people move their belongings and livestock away from rivers.
The Mekong River Commission reported that the river could flood in Vientiane on September 14 while the river level in Pakxan district, Borikhamxay province is expected to reach the alarm level on September 15.
Northern Laos is experiencing some of the worst flooding in recent years after storm Yagi passed through the area on Monday, which caused already swollen rivers to rise further and some to overflow.
In Luang Namtha province, the Namtha River burst its banks, causing the most widespread flooding in the area since 2008.
People who plan to travel through the north of Laos are advised to keep track of weather warnings after the Namtha River caused flooding from the Namtha Bridge to Pak Hat village in Pha Oudom district, Bokeo province.
Elsewhere, in Bountay district, Phongsaly province, the level of the Lan and Boun rivers has risen to the warning level following almost non-stop rain since September 8
Flooding has already occurred in some areas and inundated houses, roads, markets and schools as well as affecting livestock and crops in Bountay, Phonthong and Nawai villages.
Many people have already moved their belongings, animals and vehicles to higher ground.
Flooding and landslips also occurred in 11 villages of Namor district in Oudomxay province.