Influenced by a low-pressure trough, heavy rain fell overnight in many areas of Dien Bien and Son La. Rainfall from 9 pm yesterday to 9 am today reached 262 mm in Phi Nhu, 250 mm in Na Son (Dien Bien); 137 mm in Sam Kha, and 132 mm in Lang Cheu (Son La).

Dien Bien is suffering severe damage from the floods. According to the Vietnam News Agency (TTXVN), landslides overnight buried three villages – Hang Pu Xi, Trong Su B, and Co De – in Xa Dung commune, leaving 7 people missing. Authorities have dispatched three working groups to the scene to search for them.

In Tia Dinh commune, many roads to the center and to other villages were blocked by landslides. Two children died when their house was buried, and another person was swept away by the floodwaters.

Local authorities said the heavy rain, landslides, and flooding are hampering search and rescue efforts.

Floodwaters rise in Dien Bien. Photo: Nguoi Dien Bien

Floodwaters rise in Dien Bien. Photo: Nguoi Dien Bien

Widespread flooding has also isolated several villages in Dien Bien. National Highway 12 is experiencing multiple landslides and rising water levels, causing traffic jams. Provincial Road 141 through Muong Phang commune is blocked by a landslide that brought down trees across the road.

The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting predicts 10-30 mm of rain, with some areas exceeding 50 mm, in Dien Bien and Son La provinces over the next 3-6 hours. There is a high risk of flash floods and landslides in the following communes of Dien Bien: Na Son, Phinh Giang, Tia Dinh, Xa Dung, Muong Luan, Pu Nhi, Muong Ang, Muong Phang, Muong Pon, Na Sang, and Na Tau; and in the following communes of Son La: Muong Lan, Pung Banh, Muong Leo, and Sop Cop.

Gia Chinh