A flooded road in Xiengkhouang province. --Photo Lao National Radio

Xiengkhouang issues alert as flooding blocks main road

Xiengkhouang authorities have issued an urgent warning to motorists after severe flooding struck the area on Tuesday, triggered by continuous heavy rainfall.
Floodwater has submerged sections of the road connecting Namkoc village in Paek district and Kham district, according to Lao National Radio
The provincial government is urging the public to avoid the affected route and stay updated on conditions through official channels, as local authorities work to restore access.
Travellers are advised to exercise caution and delay non-essential journeys to the region until conditions improve.
Last week, another flood in Ngeun district, Xayabouly province, inundated people’s homes in Thong, Homxay, and Pak Khaen villages, while National Highway No. 2 WU was cut off between Ngeun district and Pakbaeng district in Oudomxay province.
Floodwaters also submerged crops on 7,508 hectares of farmland in Khammuan province, of which 14 hectares of crops were destroyed, resulting in significant losses for farmers.
According to the Khammuan provincial Agriculture and Environment Department, heavy rainfall last week caused widespread flooding, with floodwater spreading into crop fields.
The Central Disaster Management Committee has directed provincial authorities to prepare temporary evacuation sites and advised people to move their belongings and livestock to safe areas, as tropical storm Wipha is forecast to pass over Laos between July 21 and 23.
Thunderstorms, heavy rain and occasional strong winds are expected in the provinces of Phongsaly, Huaphan, Xiengkhouang, Oudomxay, Bokeo, Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, Xayabouly, Bolikhamxay, Khammuan, Savannakhet, Vientiane and Xaysomboun, and the capital Vientiane.

by Times Reporters
 (Latest Update July 23, 2025)