The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting announced that due to the influence of a low-pressure trough, heavy rain fell across the Northwest region, Tuyen Quang, and Thanh Hoa last night and this morning. From 7 PM yesterday to 8 AM today, rainfall in many areas exceeded 100 mm, including: Xuan Giang 1 (Tuyen Quang) with 172 mm, Lung Ha (Lao Cai) with 169 mm, Nam Cuoi 4 (Lai Chau) with 137 mm, Na Tau 3 (Dien Bien) with 112 mm, and Bac Phong (Son La) with 112 mm.

The meteorological agency forecasts that from this afternoon until tomorrow night (5/8), Northern and North Central Vietnam will continue to experience rain, with common rainfall amounts of 70-140 mm, and localized areas receiving over 200 mm. Specifically, Northern Vietnam will still have rain this morning, with 10-30 mm, and some places exceeding 60 mm.

On 6/8, rain will persist with general amounts of 30-60 mm, and localized areas exceeding 100 mm. Overall for the entire period from the afternoon of 4/8 to the night of 6/8, total rainfall is expected to reach 100-200 mm, with many areas exceeding 300 mm. This could cause flooding in low-lying areas, urban centers, and industrial zones, and increase the risk of flash floods in small rivers and streams, as well as landslides in hilly and mountainous regions.

Soldiers assist residents evacuating from a flooded area in Lao Cai on 3/8. *Photo: Lao Cai Ward People's Committee*

The National Steering Committee for Civil Defense has urged the People's Committees of 18 provinces and cities in Northern and North Central Vietnam to promptly review areas at high risk of deep flooding, flash floods, and landslides to proactively evacuate residents. They are also to control traffic in flooded areas, submerged crossings, and landslide-prone zones; inspect the safety of reservoirs and ongoing construction projects; and maintain on-duty forces ready to handle any emerging situations.

Gia Chinh