Lao weather bureau warns against outdoor activities amid soaring temperatures

VIENTIANE (Xinhua): The weather bureau of Laos is advising members of the public to avoid outdoor activities and take precautions in order to ensure their well-being as temperatures continue to rise across Laos.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Lao Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on Thursday issued a warning, advising people to remain vigilant and wary of a potential conflagration amid soaring temperatures.

The weather bureau cautioned that exposure to hot weather may cause heat stroke and could result in health complications.

According to a forecast by the weather bureau on Thursday, most areas in Laos are expected to undergo peak temperatures ranging from 40 to 43 degrees Celsius from April 25 to 28.

But despite the stifling heat in the country, a storm passed through northern Laos' Xayaboury province, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and hail, and left a trail of destruction in 20 villages, with 520 houses affected.

The storm hit the province on Tuesday at around 4:00 p.m. local time, causing damage to seven schools, the provincial hospital, a market, and five temples, as well as army, health, judicial, education, and transport offices.

In addition, nine electricity poles and 22 kV power lines were damaged, as well as a chicken farm and seven vehicles, the local news website Lao Pattana News reported on Friday. - Xinhua