Vietnam: Dangerous chemicals found in Hanoi tap water October 15

Event

On Tuesday, October 15, officials announced that dangerous chemicals were found in tap water samples from southeast Hanoi. According to reports, styrene, which is a carcinogen, was found in the tap water at elevated levels. Residents in Hanoi began reporting a bad smell coming from tap water after a truck dumped oil into the Red River northeast of the capital on October 8. Free water will reportedly be provided to those in the affected area. Water purification efforts are reportedly underway as of Wednesday, October 16. 

Advice

Individuals in Hanoi and surrounding areas are advised to monitor the situation, stock up on bottled water, and avoid drinking tap water until it becomes clear the issue has been resolved.