Vietnam: Typhoon Damrey kills at least 91 /update 3

Event

As of November 9, 91 people have been killed and 23 remain missing following the passage of Typhoon Damrey, which made landfall on Saturday, November 4, and whose aftermath continues to impact the central and southern regions of the country. At least 120,000 homes have been damaged and 30,000 people have been evacuated due to floods.

Water levels in most rivers are reportedly decreasing but the Vietnam Disaster Management Authority continues to warn that parts of Vietnam’s north-south highway are still covered with up to a meter (3 ft) of water, disrupting traffic.

Relief efforts are currently underway to clear roads to welcome the US, Russian, and Chinese presidents arriving for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. The city of Da Nang, which will host the summit on November 10, also suffered damages, albeit less serious than other cities such as Hoi An.

Context

Typhoon Damrey was the 12th major storm to hit Vietnam this year. In October, heavy rains and subsequent floods and landslides killed over 80 people in the northern provinces of Yen Bai and Hoa Binh. In September, Typhoon Doksuri struck Ha Tinh and Quang Binh provinces, killing 17 people and causing over USD 700 million in damages.

Advice

Individuals present in Vietnam are advised to keep abreast of weather forecasts, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to all advice issued by the local authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. In addition, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and foodstuffs discarded.