Since June, 145,000 people have been affected by floods, landslides and storms across Lao PDR.
Induced by tropical cyclone Yagi, heavy rains caused additional floods and landslides in September, impacting Lao PDR’s northern provinces of Luang Namtha, Phongsaly, Oudomxay and Bokeo. As a result, 40,000 people are impacted in two districts of Luang Namtha province.
Rising levels in the Mekong river have caused floods downstream, with parts of Vientiane capital prefecture impacted. Assessments are underway to evaluate damage and needs.
WFP is supporting the government in emergency distribution of rice for 14,000 severely affected people in Luang Namtha province, as well as needs assessments and logistics support for government response plans.
Situation update
Heavy rains began on September 9, causing landslides, flooding and significant damage to property and community structures in the four northern provinces. Forty-eight villages in two districts of Luang Namtha province were most impacted, with 20 villages severely affected. More than 40,000 people are in need of assistance.
Floodwaters have receded significantly over the weekend and cleanup has started with people returning home from the government-organised evacuation centres. People are in urgent need of food, water and personal hygiene and clothing items.
The main road to Luang Namtha is currently passable but various access points such as the airport remain suspended.
Floods also occurred in Phongsaly, Bokeo and Oudomxay provinces impacting roads and infrastructure.
Rising levels in the Mekong river (up to 10 meters in the current monsoon season) have caused floods downstream, with parts of Vientiane capital prefecture impacted. Assessments are underway to evaluate damage and needs.
