Laos Issues Flood and Landslide Warnings Amid Heavy Rains

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment has warned of possible flash floods and landslides in several provinces on September 1–2, 2026. The department said a low-pressure trough or rain belt continues to move across northern Laos, combined with the southwest monsoon, bringing thunderstorms nationwide, with heavy rainfall and strong winds possible in some areas. High-risk areas include Xaysomboun Province (Thathom, Longsan and Hom districts); Vientiane Province (Kasi and Vang Vieng); Borikhamxay (Viengthong); Khammouan (Boualapha, Khounkham, Nakai and Yommalath); and Savannakhet (Phon, Sepon, Champhone, Thapangthong, Vilabouly, Chonburi and Nong). In the south, vulnerable areas include Saravane (Ta-oy, Lao Nga, Saravane, Lakhonepheng and Vapi); Champasak (Bachiangchalensuk, Paksong, Sanasomboun and Thapangthong); Sekong (Kalum and Dakchung); and Attapeu (Sanxay, Phouvong and Sanamxay). The department urged residents, local authorities and relevant organizations in affected areas to remain vigilant, monitor weather forecasts and water levels, and take precautions against flooding and landslides. Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. has provided more than 600 million kip worth of relief supplies to families affected by flooding in seven central and southern provinces. A special task force from the Ministry of Public Security has arrested 139 people from four nationalities during raids on suspected cybercrime and online gambling operations in Xaysetha District, Vientiane Capital. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence General Khamlieng Outhakaysone, President of the Central Disaster Management Committee, led a delegation to Luang Namtha Province on August 31 to monitor the flood situation and provide guidance on disaster response. The handover ceremony for the Vang Vieng municipal road improvement project in Vientiane Province was held on 30 August 2026. The Luang Namtha Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport has announced the temporary closure of National Route 13 North from the Oudomxay provincial border to the Boten-China border following severe flooding and landslides caused by heavy rainfall on August 29, 2026.