Laos’ meteorological service has issued a warning, asking citizens to be ready for possible floods as rainstorms are expected to swoop across several of the country’s provinces.

A report released on Friday by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment stated that strong winds and heavy rain will persist across the nation from Friday to Sunday, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding, according to Xinhua news agency.

People should exercise extreme caution when it comes to possible floods, especially in the central and southern regions, according to the meteorological agency.

Local officials urged residents to monitor weather predictions and be ready to relocate their possessions and pets to safe locations.

Floods have affected more than 176,000 people in 15 provinces around Laos after days of intense rain brought on by several storms since July 18.

The Lao government has responded by deploying national defense troops, local authorities, and volunteers to help with the evacuation and relief activities in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Committee.