Lao weather bureau warns of potential floods

VIENTIANE, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) — The weather bureau of Laos has warned of possible floods and landslides as heavy rain with occasional wind gusts will continue throughout the country while water levels in rivers keep rising.
Heavy and light rains have been forecast across the Southeast Asian country, which are expected to result in a rise in the water levels of the Mekong River and its main tributaries.
The level of the Mekong River section in Lao capital Vientiane was recorded at 11.55 meters on Wednesday, exceeding the warning level of 11.50 meters, with the danger level at 12.50 meters, according to a report issued by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Lao Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
Lao authorities are keeping a close eye on the Mekong River and its tributaries since the water levels are expected to rise in the next few days.
Everyone should be prepared for weather extremes and keep track of forecasts, the weather bureau said. ■