Home » ASIA » Torrential Rains Cause Massive Flooding in Thai Nguyen City, Northern Vietnam; May Disrupt Travel Industry and Raising Tourist Safety Concerns
Friday, August 23, 2024
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Continuous heavy rainfall from Thursday afternoon into the evening has resulted in severe flooding in Thai Nguyen City, northern Vietnam, creating significant travel disruptions and raising concerns for the safety of tourists in the region. The relentless downpour, which began around 1 p.m., caused water levels to rise dramatically, sweeping away vehicles and submerging streets under as much as 60 centimeters of water by nightfall.
Impact on Thai Nguyen City
Thai Nguyen Province, which houses the city of the same name, experienced particularly heavy rainfall, with accumulated precipitation ranging from 70 to 95 mm by 7 p.m. on Thursday. As a result, several major streets in Thai Nguyen City were heavily flooded, causing chaos for residents and travelers alike.
On Z115 Street, floodwaters reached 60 cm, sweeping a four-seater car off the road for about 50 meters before it was finally deposited onto the sidewalk. Fortunately, the driver managed to exit the vehicle safely before it was carried away. Similarly, on Hoang Gia Street, an empty taxicab was also swept away by the rushing waters.
Other areas of the city were similarly affected. Several cars were stalled in the middle of Quang Trung Street, awaiting rescue, while at the intersection of Luong Ngoc Quyen and Hoang Van Thu, water flooded roadside homes, toppling and washing away parked motorbikes.
The flooding was not confined to these areas. Streets in the city center, including Phu Lien, Phan Boi Chau, Phan Dinh Phung, Nguyen Dinh Chieu, and Van Cao, were also submerged, creating hazardous conditions for both locals and tourists. Pham Yen, a local resident, recounted how her motorbike stalled and was knocked over by waves as she tried to navigate through the flooded Hoang Van Thu Street. She was eventually pulled to safety by nearby residents.
Wider Impact Across Northern Vietnam
The heavy rains and flooding are part of a broader weather pattern affecting northern Vietnam due to the influence of a low-pressure trough. Since Tuesday, the region has been experiencing persistent heavy rainfall, particularly in the late afternoon and evening hours. The resulting floods have already caused significant damage, severing National Highway 18 in Quang Ninh Province and National Highway 4H in Lai Chau. In Tuyen Quang, the flooding claimed one life on Wednesday.
In Hanoi, the capital city, heavy rain began at 7 p.m. in the outlying district of Soc Son and spread to the inner city. By late Thursday night, Bac Tu Liem District recorded over 120 mm of rainfall, with other districts also seeing substantial accumulations.
Travel Disruptions and Tourist Concerns
The severe weather and resulting floods are likely to cause significant travel disruptions in northern Vietnam, with road closures and hazardous conditions making it difficult for tourists to navigate the region safely. Visitors to Thai Nguyen City and surrounding areas should exercise caution, as the flooded streets pose a risk of vehicle damage and accidents. Travelers are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and consider postponing non-essential travel until the situation improves.
As authorities work to manage the flooding and ensure the safety of residents and visitors, the ongoing heavy rains could lead to further disruptions, making it essential for tourists to plan accordingly and prioritize safety during their stay in northern Vietnam.
