Tropical storm Noul on track to hit southern Laos today

The Meteorology and Hydrology Department, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, has issued a weather alert to provincial departments across the country, warning that Tropical Storm Noul could pass over Laos today and Saturday.
The storm passed over Vietnam on Thursday and is expected to track towards the south of Laos before moving to central and northern regions, the Meteorology and Hydrology Department said on Wednesday.

“We have issued a weather alert to every provincial Natural Resources and Environment Department so the public can be prepared for this storm in case of an emergency,” said the Head of the Weather Forecast and Warning Division, Mr Bountem Sisouphanthavong.
The fast-approaching tropical storm is expected to weaken to a tropical depression which will bring heavy rain and strong winds to northern, central southern areas.
Everyone is advised to listen out for weather forecasts issued by the Meteorology and Hydrology Department through official media channels, especially in Vientiane and the provinces of Huaphan, Xieng Khuang, Bokeo, Luang Prabang, Xayaboury, Vientiane, Xaysomboun, Borikhamxay, Khammuan, Savannakhet, Saravan, Champassak, Xekong, and Attapeu.
The department warned that heavy rain could cause flash floods due to severe water run-off, while strong winds could topple trees and power lines as well as damage houses and other property.
Forecasters also warned of landslides in mountainous areas and advised people to move their belongings and pets to higher ground.
Records show that rainfall last week was greater than during the same period last year, especially in central regions.

By Souksamai Boulom
(Latest Update September 18, 2020)