Hanoi, Sep 17: Heavy rain triggered widespread flooding across northern Vietnam on Thursday, inundating more than 2,000 homes, isolating over 1,000 households and disrupting major transport routes as several rivers crossed dangerous levels, authorities and state media reported.
Northern and north-central parts of the country have been lashed by heavy rainfall this week, with some areas recording more than 50 cm of rain. Ninh Binh and Thanh Hoa provinces were among the worst affected.
Flooding submerged or damaged around 10,014 hectares of rice and other crops, with major losses reported in Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa and Nghe An. Thousands of livestock and poultry were also killed, according to authorities.
In Thanh Hoa, authorities asked students to stay home after floodwaters made travel dangerous. In Hanoi, several streets were severely flooded, with water reaching nearly one metre in some areas. Rainfall in parts of the capital exceeded 15 cm between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.
Several high schools and universities in Hanoi remained closed or shifted to online classes as the flooding disrupted traffic and daily activities.
Rising water levels in the Bui River on the southwestern outskirts of Hanoi also threatened homes. Hundreds of soldiers were deployed to help residents move their belongings to higher ground, state media reported.
Describing the recurring nature of the flooding, Ninh Binh resident Tran Ngoc Tai told national broadcaster VTV, “The flood happens every year.” He said residents had prepared by keeping fresh water and food supplies ready.
Authorities have also warned of further heavy rainfall in southern Vietnam between September 17 and 21. Flood-prone Ho Chi Minh City could receive 10 to 20 cm of rain, with some areas likely to receive more, raising the risk of flooding in low-lying areas and along waterways.
Vietnam is highly vulnerable to climate-related hazards and frequently experiences flooding. Following a series of severe storms last year, the country has been seeking new ways to strengthen flood preparedness and management.
