World Vision responding to worst flooding in 35 years in southern part of Laos

20 Sept 2013

World Vision is responding to flooding in Champasak province, distributing food and clean water to the thousands of victims who have seen waist deep water seep into their homes.

About 4,000 people have been affected in World Vision’s working area in Soukhoumma District, as of 20 September, with more rain expected this weekend.

“We’re estimating about 700 children in our sponsorship programme have been affected,” said Amelia Merrick, World Vision Lao PDR National Director. “World Vision is partnering with the local government to distribute canned fish, rice and clean water to address the immediate needs.”

Phaiboun Kimanivong, a World Vision development worker located in the affected area, said eight villages had been evacuated, with families moved to safer locations until the raining ends.

“There are other villages we have not been able to get to yet, and not been able to make contact with. The water is up to one metre deep in some places,”PhaibounKimanivong reported.

According to Phaiboun, this is the worst flooding in the area in 35 years. One person has drowned and another is injured in this flooding. Roads are impassible and World Vision and government response teams are using boats to reach affected communities.

World Vision’s response will continue this weekend.