Vietecho — Prolonged heavy rains cause flooding in many areas of central Vietnam, especially in Hue and Da Nang cities, and increase the risk of flash floods and landslides. In the face of the complex weather, military and rescue forces have been mobilized to support people, evacuate those in danger zones and prepare to respond to emergency situations.
Hue recorded rainfall exceeding 800 mm in three days
According to the Associated Press (AP) in a news release dated October 9, 2026, the rainfall in Hue in three days exceeded 800 mm, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides. Heavy rains are concentrated in coastal lowlands and hilly areas south of the city.
Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam with its ancient system of palaces and historical monuments, is one of the localities significantly affected by prolonged heavy rains. Rapid rising water can flood low-lying neighborhoods, affect traffic and disrupt people’s livelihoods.
Meanwhile, in Da Nang, heavy rains on October 8 caused many roads and residential areas to be flooded. According to AP, in some places, water levels exceed one meter, making travel difficult and increasing the risk of unsafe conditions.
You can read the original AP news here: Vietnam mobilizes troops after heavy rains trigger flash floods and raise risks of landslides — Associated Press
The army and rescue forces support the people
In view of the risk of continued heavy rains, military forces were mobilized in Da Nang. The AP quoted Vietnamese state media as saying nearly 130 troops had been deployed in the city, while other rescue teams had been set up and armored vehicles wading in prepared to support the rescue operation if the situation worsened.
Rescue teams assisted in evacuating children and people from the flooded area, and helped move property to safety.
In mountainous areas around Da Nang, landslides caused rocks and trees to block roads. In Tra Linh commune, a road leading to a residential area is covered with stone soil and trees. Functional forces have partially cleared the rocky ground and restored traffic step by step, however the risk of further landslides remains.
These developments show that heavy rains not only flood urban areas, but also pose significant risks to mountainous areas, where steep terrain can cause rocky soil to slide onto roads and residential areas.
One missing after boat capsizes in Changjiang River
According to the AP, a boat capsize occurred on the Changjiang River on the afternoon of October 7 as the couple were returning home after mowing grass. The wife did not know how to swim but clung to a bag of grass and was swept away by the water for about 300 metres before being rescued by residents.
The husband was swept away by the water and was still missing at the time the news was published.
The incident is a reminder of the dangers of traveling by boat or approaching rivers and streams in rainy conditions. Fast water flows and rapidly changing water levels can make routine activities especially dangerous.
Warning of risk of flash floods and landslides
The rainy season in Vietnam usually lasts from May to November, according to AP news reports. During this period, heavy rains can cause rivers and streams to rise rapidly, causing flooding in submerged areas and increasing the risk of landslides in mountainous areas.
A report by Vietnam Television (VTV) on October 8 also said that Hue, Da Nang and many central areas continued to experience heavy to very heavy rain. According to forecast information obtained by VTV from the National Hydrological Meteorological Forecast Center, some places could record rainfall of more than 200 mm; the forecast agency said heavy rains in some areas would gradually decrease from October 9.
Detailed information is posted at: Hue, Da Nang continued to rain very heavy, gradually decreasing from October 9 — VTV.
However, the weather forecast may change according to actual developments. Residents should keep an eye out for the latest announcements from the meteorological agency and local authorities, especially in places where there is a risk of deep flooding, flash floods or landslides.
Recommend Democrats to take action to avoid
To minimize the risk during periods of flooding, residents should:
- Follow weather alerts and evacuation notices from local authorities.
- Do not walk, drive, or ride a motorcycle through deep flooded areas or rushing water.
- Avoid close proximity to rivers, streams and areas at risk of landslides during heavy rains.
- Prepare essential items, medicines and important papers if you live in an area that is frequently flooded.
- Follow the instructions of the rescue forces and move to a safe place when required.
Benjamin Horton, an earth science expert at the City University of Hong Kong, told the AP that authorities could not completely prevent extreme rains but could minimize damage through early warning systems, prepare rescue forces, protect essential infrastructure, evacuate people before roads flood and improve drainage.
Effective response does not only stop at rescuing in times of natural disasters, but also requires an emphasis on recovery and increasing the resilience of communities in the face of subsequent flooding rains.
References:
- Associated Press (AP), October 9, 2026: Vietnam mobilizes troops after heavy rains trigger flash floods and raise risks of landslides.
- Vietnam Television (VTV), October 8, 2026: Hue, Da Nang continued to rain very heavy, decreasing from October 9.
The article was compiled by Vietecho based on the sources cited above. The situation of flooding and rescue work is subject to change; readers should follow updated notices from authorities.
