Laos, Myanmar: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of both countries as of Aug. 10

Event

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of Laos and Myanmar as of Aug. 10. Heavy rainfall associated with the current monsoon season has triggered widespread flooding, landslides, and associated disruptions in the region since early August. Authorities in Laos have reported at least six fatalities and one other person missing, as well as nearly 14,000 families affected by flooding across 10 of the country's 17 provinces. Hundreds of homes and dozens of roads have been damaged. Water levels along sections of the Mekong River have reached dangerously high levels, and a flood protection embankment in Vientiane Province has been damaged, which will likely exacerbate the threat of flooding in the region. Further heavy rainfall and storms are forecast over much of the country in the coming days.

Authorities in Myanmar have reported that more than 30,000 people have been evacuated due to flooding across Bago Region and Kayin, Mon, and Rakhine states in recent days. Many roads in the affected areas have been made impassable by the floodwaters, including sections of the Asean Highway. Widespread showers and storms are forecast across much of Myanmar over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that are inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Health
Although a secondary concern, the threat of disease outbreaks cannot be discounted in the coming days and weeks. Backflow from drains that have mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and waterborne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been present. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks. Keep any necessary medications in a waterproof container.