The northern mountainous region has been experiencing rain since last night due to the influence of a low-pressure trough. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting reported rainfall from 7 PM yesterday to 5 AM today reaching 208 mm in Dao San (Lai Chau) and 62 mm in Viet Vinh (Tuyen Quang).

The rain in this region is predicted to continue until the morning of 7/8, with total accumulation generally between 70 and 100 mm, and over 200 mm in some localized areas. The heaviest rainfall is expected in the late afternoon and evening, with the potential for intense downpours exceeding 100 mm in three hours.

In the next 6 hours, flash floods and landslides are possible in the northern mountainous and midland regions, affecting eight communes in Cao Bang province; two communes each in Tuyen Quang and Lai Chau provinces; and three communes each in Lao Cai and Son La provinces.

Police clear a road for rescue efforts in Dien Bien. Photo: Dien Bien Radio and Television Station

Police clear a road for rescue efforts in Dien Bien. Photo: Dien Bien Radio and Television Station

The northern delta will see rain starting tonight, with totals generally between 20 and 40 mm, and exceeding 70 mm in some areas. The meteorological agency warns that these thunderstorms, following a period of hot weather, could bring extreme weather phenomena including tornadoes, lightning, hail, and strong gusts of wind.

Over the past two weeks, the northern mountainous region, particularly Dien Bien and Son La provinces, has been affected by two periods of heavy rain. In Dien Bien, flooding and landslides have resulted in 10 deaths and 12 injuries; while in Son La, there have been 5 deaths and one person missing. Approximately 600 houses have been collapsed or swept away, and thousands more have been severely flooded.

Many major roads have been affected by landslides, disrupting transportation and hindering rescue, relief, and humanitarian aid efforts.

Gia Chinh

See the 7-day weather forecast here.