Heavy rain has triggered widespread flooding in Luang Namtha, affecting 34 villages and damaging roads, power infrastructure and other facilities, according to state media.
Heavy rain from 28 to 29 August caused rivers and streams to rise, triggering flash floods and inundating 34 villages along several waterways, including communities in and around the Boten Special Economic Zone.
In Boten, streams overflowed onto roads on the morning of 29 August before floodwaters entered homes and offices in the Boten Special Economic Zone, the Boten International Checkpoint and villages along the Nam Thung River.
Provincial authorities said agricultural land, gardens, homes, roads, offices and schools were among the areas affected. A detailed assessment of the number of people and households affected, as well as damage to homes, agricultural land, roads and bridges, is still underway.
Authorities are deploying personnel, boats, vehicles, shelters, food, medicine and other supplies to assist affected residents. People in vulnerable areas have been advised to follow official updates, avoid strong currents, move belongings to higher ground and prepare to relocate if necessary.
Roads Closed
The Luang Namtha Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport issued a notice on 30 August saying severe flooding and landslides had closed National Route 13 North from the Oudomxay provincial border to the Boten-China border.
Heavy rain damaged roads and bridges along the route. Authorities are accelerating repairs and have urged drivers to avoid the affected section, park safely and cooperate with repair crews.
Thousands Without Power in Oudomxay
Meanwhile, in neighboring Oudomxay Province also experienced severe flooding, landslides, erosion and fallen trees from 29 to 30 August, damaging power infrastructure.
Repairs have restored some services, but 74 villages and at least 3,817 households remain without electricity as blocked roads continue to hamper access.
A weather warning issued on 30 August said northern and central Laos could continue to experience heavy rain, flash floods and landslides through 31 August.
Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, Bokeo, Bolikhamxay and Khammouane face high risks, while Vientiane, Xaysomboun, Savannakhet and Salavan face moderate risks. Authorities have urged residents to monitor official updates and remain vigilant.
In Luang Prabang, flash flooding in Nam Bak District affected seven villages and 195 households. Authorities have begun cleanup operations and damage assessments.
