11 Sep 2019 | 01:11 PM UTC
Vietnam: Deadly flooding in northern Vietnam September 11 /update 1
Five killed, one missing after heavy rain hits northern Vietnam, September 11; additional rain and traffic disruptions likely in the coming days
Event
The Central Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control (CSCNDPC) warns for of a high risk of flash floods and landslides in the coming days in the mountainous provinces of Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, Lai Chau, Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Cao Bang, Lang Son, and Quang Ninh, as well as a flood risk in the provinces of Thai Nguyen, Bac Giang, Bac Kan, and Hanoi. Flooding up to 2-5m (6.5-16.5 ft) due to overflowing rivers are also expected in the above mentioned provinces. A flood alert has been raised to level 2 in areas located around the Bang Giang river, and to level 3 in areas around the Cau river.
The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has forecast more rain in the northern provinces through Thursday, September 12. Associated power outages and commercial, transportation, and communications disruptions are to be expected in the area over the coming hours and days.
Context
Tropical cyclones and typhoons are common in the western Pacific and the South China Sea from June through November.
Advice
Individuals in northern provinces are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.
