Laos: Typhoon Molave expected to move over southern Laos October 28

Event

Typhoon Molave is expected to move across southern Laos on Wednesday, October 28, following landfall in Vietnam's Quang Nam province. Authorities have warned that Molave will bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to southern and central regions of the country until Thursday, October 29, despite its weakening following landfall. Authorities have warned the public to exercise caution, particularly if in at-risk areas. Molave is forecast to enter Laos as a Category 1 typhoon on Wednesday; however, it will rapidly weaken into a tropical storm and then into a tropical depression as it moves into Thailand on Thursday. Laos has been experiencing widespread flooding as a result of the passage of tropical storms Linfa and Nangka. Among the worst affected areas is Savannakhet province, where 15,000 people have been evacuated.

Strong winds and heavy rainfall could result in flooding, landslides, and disruptions to transport, businesses, and utilities as the storm system approaches.

Advice

Those in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, including evacuation orders. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.