Vietnam Battles Widespread Flooding After Heavy Rains

Heavy rains have triggered widespread flooding across northern Vietnam, submerging thousands of homes, damaging crops, and disrupting essential transportation routes. Authorities reported on Thursday that several rivers have risen above dangerous levels.

Some areas in northern and north-central Vietnam have received over 50 centimeters (19.7 inches) of rain this week. More than 2,000 homes have been inundated, numerous key transportation routes are blocked, and over 1,000 households are isolated. Ninh Binh and Thanh Hoa provinces, located south of the capital Hanoi, have been particularly affected.

In Thanh Hoa province, flooding made travel to schools dangerous, prompting authorities to instruct students to remain home. Across Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An provinces, approximately 10,014 hectares (24,745 acres) of rice and other crops have been submerged or damaged. Thousands of livestock and poultry have also perished.

Streets in Hanoi experienced deep flooding on Thursday morning, with water reaching nearly a meter (3.2 feet) in some locations. This disruption made it difficult for residents to commute, take children to school, or leave their homes. Rainfall in some parts of the capital exceeded 15 centimeters (5.9 inches) from Wednesday night to Thursday morning. Many high schools and universities in Hanoi shifted to online classes or remained closed.

Soldiers were deployed to the southwestern outskirts of Hanoi to assist residents in moving belongings to higher ground as the Bui River threatened to overflow. Residents in Ninh Binh noted that while floods occur annually, they were prepared with adequate food and fresh water.

Vietnam is recognized as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change and prone to flooding. The nation experienced a series of severe storms in the previous year, which prompted efforts to improve flood preparedness and management strategies. Forecasts indicate that a cold air mass moving south is expected to bring five days of heavy rain to southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, starting September 17. Widespread rain is predicted through September 21, with authorities warning of potential flooding in low-lying areas and along waterways. Ho Chi Minh City could receive between 10 to 20 centimeters (4 to 8 inches) of rain, with some areas expecting more.