Severe flooding in central Vietnam has resulted in a tragic toll, with at least 16 lives lost and several others missing due to relentless rain since the weekend. The affected regions, known for their stunning beaches and coffee production, have seen water levels soar, disrupting daily life and economic activities.
Impact of Torrential Rainfall
Over the past three days, rainfall in some areas exceeded 1,500 millimetres, leading to widespread chaos. The flooding has submerged:
- More than 43,000 homes
- Over 10,000 hectares of crops
- Several major roads, keeping communities isolated
Rescue Operations Underway
Rescuers have been working tirelessly as they navigate through the challenging conditions. Reports indicate that:
- Some residents were spotted stranded on rooftops, calling for help using social media.
- Naval forces and helicopters were deployed to carry out rescue missions.
- A seven-year-old girl was rescued from the rubble of her home after being buried in a landslide.
The natural disaster has also affected over 553,000 households with enduring power outages as floodwaters damaged electrical infrastructures.
Climate Change and Future Risks
This year’s extreme weather patterns have raised concerns among experts. The National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting noted record high water levels in major rivers, emphasising that climate change is contributing to more frequent and severe weather events. According to government statistics, Vietnam has faced devastating impacts from natural disasters throughout 2024, with over 279 fatalities either missing due to similar circumstances.
Regional Response and Assistance
The Vietnamese government is mobilising resources to mitigate the situation. Emergency hotlines have been inundated with calls from worried citizens, highlighting the urgency of the ongoing rescue efforts. The Ministry of Environment is closely monitoring weather conditions, warning of potential further rains and landslides.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of this disaster, solidarity among communities remains strong, reflecting the resilience of the Vietnamese people in the face of adversity.