What are the issues affecting travelers to Laos? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.
Photo © iStock/VuCongDanh
Cyclone Doksuri - 14 September 2017
A tropical storm that formed in the South China Sea this week is expected to strengthen to a category 2 cyclone in the coming days and impact northern Vietnam and Laos by late on Friday 15 September, 2017.
Cyclone Doksuri is expected to make landfall around the Vietnamese coastal town of Vinh then head WNW into Laos, weakening in strength as it does. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain to the Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng regions of Laos.
How to Survive a Cyclone
The absolutely best way to survive a hurricane is to avoid one. Get away from it, but if you make the decision to leave make that decision early. Do not leave it until the last minute because you may find yourself caught without proper shelter.
If you decide to stay and "ride it out" it is advisable to get to an authorized shelter. The locations of these will be broadcast, or locals will know where they are. If there is no shelter, prepare to "shelter in place" in an internal room without windows.
During the storm
- Never go out during the storm. The winds can send flying debris into you causing injury and even death.
- Stay away from windows and doors.
- Keep on the alert for additional storm warnings. Hurricanes are known to spawn tornadoes so be prepared to take cover if one should strike.
- While the storm is in progress avoid using electrical appliances.
- Stay off the telephone.
- Do not light candles or lanterns; they could get blown over causing a fire.
- The eye of the storm passing over could make you think the storm is over when the worst is still yet to come. Only use this calm in an extreme emergency to make critical repairs.
- Only after an official "all clear" has been issued is it safe to come out.
After the storm
- Beware of downed power lines and gas leaks.
- Stay away from heavily damaged areas.
- Listen to your radio for instructions.
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