Floods in southern China have killed two people and forced nearly 48,000 residents to evacuate, raising concerns across the region as Laos prepares for another week of heavy rain, rising rivers, and possible flooding.
Chinese authorities raised their highest flood emergency level on 6 July after days of torrential rain inundated Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, where the Liulan Reservoir breached and rivers overflowed. Officials said about 55,000 people were affected.
The flooding followed the passage of Tropical Storm Maysak, which crossed northern Vietnam before weakening over southern China. Although the storm has dissipated, its remnants and a strong southwest monsoon continue to fuel widespread rainfall across mainland Southeast Asia.
The 66-year-old dam failed at two points after water levels rose above the limit, creating breaches of more than 50 meters.
Increased Flood Risk in Laos
In Laos, the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology said moderate to heavy rain is expected from 6 to 12 July, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding.
Officials identified Phongsaly, Houaphanh, Vientiane Province, Bolikhamxay, Champasak, Salavan, Sekong, and Attapeu as the provinces most vulnerable to flooding as rivers continue to rise after several days of persistent rainfall.
The warning follows several weather-related incidents already reported this month.
Floodwaters swept away a wooden bridge near Vang Vieng, flooded villages in Khammouane Province, and disrupted traffic in Savannakhet after heavy rain damaged roads and temporary crossings.
At the same time, authorities in Bolikhamxay Province released a notice on 6 July warning residents living along the Kading River to prepare for rapidly rising water levels. Beginning at 8 a.m. on 7 July, Nam Theun 1 Dam will release water through its spillway for flood management.
The notice said discharge will gradually increase to between 2,000 and 3,000 cubic metres per second, which could raise water levels along the Kading River by three to four metres. Backwater from the Mekong River is also expected to contribute to higher river levels.
The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology urged residents in flood-prone areas to closely monitor official weather updates, move belongings to higher ground where necessary, and remain prepared for possible flooding as heavy rainfall is forecast to continue throughout the week.
