Floods - Laos
the adventures
"...water, water, everywhere..."
Many of the Southeast Asian countries are prone to severe flooding, especially during the monsoon season. And, when the flood waters come, low-lying communities often see their lives disrupted and sometimes lost. In addition, the displacement, property damage, livelihood loss, traumatic experiences, diseases, and a host of other post-flood problems, create long-term challenges for these communities. Very often, those who are already poor sink deeper into a poverty hole that they have no hope of ever getting out of
Most, if not all, of the governments and communities know this. And, the effects of climate change have only made things more unpredictable. Yet, so little will and investments are made in disaster preparedness for those who are most at risk. Indeed, many would prefer to engage in an annual gamble with Mother Nature, hoping that she would perhaps be merciful this year. Unfortunately, they often lose, and the consequences can be devastating
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In 2018, I witnessed first-hand the terrifying force of Mother Nature and the effects of unpreparedness....
