Laos: Disruptions anticipated in southern provinces during passage of Tropical Storm Linfa October 11-12

Event

Tropical Storm Linfa is forecast to make landfall in central Vietnam on Sunday, October 11, before continuing westward and passing near the provinces of Attapeu, Sekong, Salavan, and Champasak in Laos on Monday, October 12. Heavy rainfall and strong winds can be expected in affected areas. The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) has warned of flash floods and landslides in southern provinces amid the ongoing monsoon season.

Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast in southern provinces in the coming days. Associated disruptions to transport, utilities, and businesses are possible during the passing of the storm system.

Context

Tropical storms can form in the Pacific Ocean at any time of year, although most typhoons occur during a peak season between June and November.

Powerful storms can affect much of the country during the monsoon season that typically runs from late April to October, although the risk is higher in the provinces of Bokeo, Luangprabang, Xayabury, and Sekong. The frequency of thunderstorms and episodes of heavy downpours is also high during the monsoon season. It should be noted that these meteorological disturbances have the potential to trigger floods and landslides, both of which pose considerable hazards to infrastructure and human communities, and can disrupt travel and service delivery. In general, the level of impact resulting from floods is the highest in central and southern provinces, although flash floods are also a credible threat in the north. The risk of landslides, on the other hand, is highest in the southeastern, central and northern provinces.

Advice

Those in areas forecast to be affected by the storm system are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and avoid driving or walking through flooded streets. Floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.