(KPL) The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare has issued a nationwide notice urging provincial disaster management committees to prepare for potential flooding in the coming days, specifically between September 12 and 13.

The notice, signed by Minister Baykham Khattiya, who also serves as Vice President of the National Disaster Management Committee, is based on weather reports issued by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology. It highlights that a low-pressure system has developed over the northern and central regions of Laos, combined with the prevailing southwest monsoon, which could trigger heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning in certain areas.

Continuous rainfall in recent days has caused water levels in the Mekong to rise, particularly in Luang Prabang and at the Kaeng Kok Station in Savannakhet Province, which have already reached the flood warning level. Water levels in Vientiane are also nearing critical levels, with expectations of further increases.

The national disaster management committee has alerted authorities in provinces along the Mekong River, including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Xayaboury, Vientiane Province, and low-lying areas near the Se Champhone River in Savannakhet, to take the following precautions:

Public Awareness: Provincial authorities are urged to warn local residents to remain vigilant, identify temporary evacuation sites, secure valuable belongings, and relocate livestock to safe areas.

Monitoring Weather Conditions: All local committees must closely monitor weather updates from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology and maintain coordination with relevant national bodies.

Water Level Surveillance: Disaster teams are advised to closely monitor rising water levels to prevent flash floods, landslides, and potential storms.

Emergency Preparedness: Provinces are instructed to ensure they have sufficient manpower, vehicles, equipment, and emergency supplies ready to respond promptly.

Rapid Response: In the event of a natural disaster, authorities must act quickly to assist affected communities and collaborate closely with related sectors to mitigate the impact.

The notice serves as a timely reminder for all provinces to be on high alert and ready to respond to any emergency situations caused by heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

KPL