A hailstorm struck the Sikhottabong district of the Lao capital Vientiane on Sunday, causing extensive damage to homes, vehicles, and public facilities and affecting more than 2,000 households, the Lao Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare reported Tuesday.
Residents in Sikhottabong's Viengkham Village said that houses were damaged, with debris scattered inside homes as rain poured through damaged roofs.
The sudden hailstorm also damaged many vehicles parked outdoors, severely disrupting local residents' lives.
"Both sides of the roof were completely destroyed. A huge hail stone punched through the roof and fell into the house with a loud crackling sound," said a resident.
"I was hit on the head by hail stones. My mother, who was at home, was also struck on the head," said another resident.
On Monday, Lao Minister of Labor and Social Welfare Phoxay Sayasone visited the affected areas to assess the situation, provide support to residents, and deliver emergency relief supplies.
Officials said efforts are underway to secure construction materials to accelerate repairs to damaged homes. The ministry is also planning longer-term recovery measures to restore livelihoods, with targeted assistance to affected households.
Hailstorm hits Laos, affecting over 2,000 families
