What precautions should we take when travelling in wet weather?
Heavy rainfall has caused flooding and landslides which have damaged roads and caused traffic jams. To reduce the risk of accidents in wet weather, drivers should take note of weather forecasts and be prepared for hazardous conditions. Vientiane Times asked members of the public what steps they were taking to guard against accidents.

Mr Phet, a resident of Luang Namtha province:  During the rainy season, heavy rain can occur at any time and many places are susceptible to flooding. We have to be careful and be prepared before taking to the road so that we’re not caught out by sudden landslides or flooding. We should follow weather forecasts on the radio, television, social media, and in newspapers. The authorities should closely monitor roads that are at risk of landslides or other hazards and warn the public immediately if there are any incidents. And, of course, if something does go wrong everyone should work together to help rescue people and quickly inform the authorities.
 
Ms Veomany Vongsa, an employee in Xaythany district, Vientiane:  Everyone should go to work early and drive more slowly, while cars should be considerate of motorbikes in order to reduce the risk of accidents. We should also drive slowly, so as to prevent incidents, and be respectful of other road users. Everyone should be careful when driving to the provinces in wet weather because accidents or landslides can occur at any time. If a journey’s not really necessary, we shouldn’t attempt to travel during heavy rain. It’s good that the government is paying attention to this issue and is reminding everyone to try to prevent problems and provide help when people get into difficulties.
 
Mr Touy Keolounnoun, a govenment official in Vientiane: Many roads in the north are at risk of landslides and flash floods because they are located in mountainous areas. To avoid accidents and reduce the risk of landslides, there should be a designated group or unit that regularly monitors certain roads and checks for untoward incidents.
If there’s a problem, the authorities should get to the scene quickly and sort it out. There should be a hotline number that people can call to provide information about landslips, flooding or anything else, to help reduce dangers and problems.
 
Mr Touny Chanthavong, an employee in Oudomxay province: I think that if we’re driving during heavy rain we should stop for a while until the rain eases or stops. To be on the safe side, we should stay indoors when a storm hits. But if we do have to be outside, we should keep clear of anything that might be unstable such as big trees, billboards, and electricity poles. In addition, everyone should take note of weather forecasts so they know what to expect. This will enable us to protect our property and keep safe.

An official with the Vientiane Traffic Police Department: During heavy rain and strong winds we advise drivers to be extra careful, and issue warnings over the radio and from loudspeakers at police boxes. Driving is always more hazardous in bad weather. The best thing is to pull over in a safe place and wait for the rain to ease. It’s also important to stay away from large trees, billboards, and electricity poles in case they collapse. Avoid using corded phones, computers and power tools because electrical wiring can conduct lightning. The best thing to do is to follow weather reports so you’re not caught in a storm while driving.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update May 16, 2022)