Vietnam: Flooding kills 15 in northern Vietnam September 5

Event

Vietnam's Central Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control announced on Wednesday, September 5, that 15 people have been killed from flash flooding and landslides caused by recent rains. Nine people were killed in Thanh Hoa province, two died in Lang Son, and four more were killed in Hoa Binh, Yen Bai, Son La, and Lai Chau provinces. Five more people are missing from the affected provinces. Relief operations are underway.

Context

Vietnam has experienced deadly and damaging rains, from monsoons and tropical cyclones, in recent months, leaving 153 people dead or missing. A further 119 others have been injured from the natural disasters.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, anticipate localized flooding and associated road hazards, and adhere to any instructions issued by 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 - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.