13 Dec 2018 | 01:39 PM UTC
Vietnam: Torrential rains and floods kill 13 in central provinces Dec. 13
Seasonal downpours lead to floods in central Vietnam, killing at least 13, December 13; avoid nonessential travel in flooded areas
Event
As of Thursday, December 13, heavy downpours (up to 50 cm - 20 in - rainfall) and associated flooding have killed at least 13 people in the central provinces of the country, notably in Quang Nam and Quang Ngai. The most affected area include the city of Da Nang, which was significantly flooded. In different places, some hydropower plants had to discharge reservoir waters, adding even more to local flooding.
Context
The typhoon season spans from May to October, leading to heavy rains and flooding. However, according to local authorities, the 2018 season started late.
Natural disasters (e.g. typhoons, floods, landslides) have killed around 200 people throughout the country since January 2018.
Advice
Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation and power disruptions, reconfirm flights, obey instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and avoid flood-prone areas until the situation stabilizes. 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.
