Country: Lao People’s Democratic Republic (the) Sources: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Lao Red Cross Please refer to the attached file. Description Following the heavy rainfall and flooding reported on 30 June 2026 in Bokeo and Phongsaly provinces, the weather system over the South China Sea subsequently developed into Typhoon Maysak. The storm made landfall near Quảng Ninh Province in northern Viet Nam before moving inland towards Guangxi Province, China. As of 4–5 July 2026, Maysak weakened into a tropical depression and was forecast to further dissipate into a low-pressure area over southern China. Although the storm was not expected to make landfall in the Lao PDR, its circulation, combined with a moderate-to-strong southwest monsoon, continued to generate widespread rainfall across the country. According to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH), strong southwest monsoon conditions continue to affect northern and central Lao PDR, bringing widespread thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rainfall. Several provinces remain at risk of flooding, flash floods and landslides, including Phongsali, Houaphanh, Bolikhamxai, Vientiane Province, Champasak, Salavan, Sekong and Attapeu. Rainfall totals of 50–80 mm within 24 hours are forecast in several areas, with isolated locations expected to receive more than 140 mm. The continued heavy rainfall has led to flooding across several provinces. Following the first major flooding event of the 2026 rainy season on 30 June, flash floods affected villages, agricultural land and infrastructure in Bokeo and Phongsaly provinces. In Phongsaly Province, floodwaters affected three villages in Bountai District, impacting 67 households (99 families, 367 people, including 177 women). The flooding damaged approximately 40 hectares of rice fields, including 5 hectares that were completely destroyed, as well as fishponds, irrigation canals, rubber plantations and a bridge. Local authorities reported that floodwaters had gradually receded and the situation had stabilized. However, detailed damage assessments remain ongoing. No fatalities or injuries have been reported. Additional weather-related incidents were reported in other parts of the country. On 4 July, floodwater washed away a wooden bridge crossing the Nam Song River near Tham Lom Cave in Vang Vieng District, Vientiane Province, following several days of continuous rainfall. On the same day, a cargo truck slid off a temporary bypass near the Houay Pasouan Bridge along Route 9 in Sepon District, Savannakhet Province, after persistent rainfall made the road conditions hazardous, causing significant traffic disruption but no reported injuries. In Thakhek District, Khammouane Province, floodwaters inundated parts of two villages following several days of heavy rainfall, compounded by inadequate drainage around Huay Pakximang. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation and assess damage. Authorities in Pakkading District, Bolikhamxay Province, have also issued a warning about the planned release of water from the Nam Theun 1 Dam spillway, beginning on 7 July, as part of reservoir management operations. Water discharge is expected to increase progressively by approximately 200 cubic metres per second each hour over an eight-hour period, reaching between 2, 000 and 3, 000 cubic metres per second. Water levels along the Nam Kading River are projected to rise by approximately 3–4 metres at the Phonchaloen monitoring station, potentially influenced by backwater effects from the Mekong River. Residents living downstream have been advised to remain vigilant, closely monitor official announcements, secure property and livestock, and prepare for possible flooding in low-lying areas.
Lao PDR: LAO: Flood – 06-2026 – Heavy Rainfall and Flooding caused by Typhoon Maysak #2 (2026-07-07)
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