VIENTIANE, March 17 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Central Disaster Management Committee met to review past disaster management efforts and set strategic directions for 2026-2030, aiming to boost preparedness, improve monitoring and emergency response, and accelerate recovery for affected communities.
The meeting, held on Monday in Lao capital Vientiane, was chaired by Lao Deputy Prime Minister Chansamone Chanyalath, Lao News Agency reported on Tuesday.
Authorities reported that natural disasters, including storms, floods, landslides and flash floods, have become increasingly severe, largely driven by climate change and human activities.
Laos experienced 376 natural disasters between 2021 and 2025, affecting more than 1 million people and causing extensive damage to society, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Several northern provinces, including Huaphan, Luang Namtha, Xayaboury and Luang Prabang, which previously experienced limited flooding, reported significant flood damage in 2024 and 2025, highlighting growing climate risks.
Speaking at the meeting, Vongkham Phanthanouvong, director general of the social welfare department under the Lao Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, said Laos continues to face multiple hazards, including floods, landslides, earthquakes, disease outbreaks, drought and structural fires.
The government has prioritized rapid emergency response, infrastructure rehabilitation and long-term recovery planning, with disaster recovery projects set to be integrated into the national public investment plan. ■
