Several prominent tourist destinations in Ninh Binh province have temporarily suspended or restricted operations today, 17/9, due to heavy rain and widespread flooding. The Ninh Binh Department of Tourism announced that the Trang An Eco-Tourism Complex closed on 17/9 until further notice, citing heavy rain, strong winds, and rising water levels. This closure follows two prior route adjustments on 15/9 and 16/9 by the complex's management, as high water levels made several caves inaccessible.

Other affected tourist areas include Van Long Eco-Tourism Complex; Sun World Ha Nam, and the Hang Chua - Hang Ghe - Hang But route in Nam Hoa Lu ward. Furthermore, Cuc Phuong National Park has suspended overnight stays, Hoa Lu Ancient Town has halted Ky Lan Lake cruises, and Thung Nham Eco-Tourism Complex has stopped tours to Hang But, Dong Tien Ca, and Hang Vai Gioi caves.

Trang An Eco-Tourism Complex on the morning of 17/9. Photo: Ninh Binh Department of Tourism

Trang An Eco-Tourism Complex on the morning of 17/9. Photo: Ninh Binh Department of Tourism

The Department of Tourism reported no incidents involving visitors and stated it would continue to monitor and assess safety levels as heavy rain and flooding persist across the northern region. The agency urged all tourist sites, travel agencies, and accommodation providers to regularly update meteorological and hydrological information. They were strictly advised not to bring visitors into areas at risk of deep flooding, strong currents, landslides, or routes that have been officially closed. Additionally, these entities should proactively adjust itineraries and assist tourists when program changes are necessary. Visitors planning trips to Ninh Binh are encouraged to contact their service providers in advance for updates on operational status.

Heavy rainfall over the past three days has caused water levels in many northern rivers to exceed alarm level three. Specifically, the Hoang Long River in Ninh Binh reached 4,4 m, 0,4 m above alarm level three. According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, this weather is due to the lingering effects of a tropical depression and a cold front. Today, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and southern Phu Tho are expected to continue experiencing rainfall of 40-80 mm, with some localized areas receiving over 130 mm.

Hoai Anh