Catastrophic flooding has struck Vietnam, claiming the lives of at least 90 people and leaving a trail of destruction across the south and central regions. The disaster, triggered by unprecedented rainfall, has also left 12 individuals missing, with rescue teams working tirelessly to locate them.
Scale of the Disaster
The intense rainfall has led to severe flooding, submerging more than 235,000 homes and ruining a vast 80,000 hectares of agricultural crops. The economic toll is staggering, with preliminary estimates placing the damage at approximately £270 million across five provinces. The province of Dak Lak has borne the brunt of this catastrophe, suffering over 60 of the confirmed fatalities.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
In response to the emergency, the Vietnamese government has mobilised a significant force. Units from the military, police, and navy have been deployed to conduct complex rescue operations and deliver essential aid to affected communities. With many areas cut off by the floodwaters, helicopters and drones are being utilised to reach isolated residents.
To support the recovery, the Prime Minister has announced an immediate aid package worth £16 million, directed towards the provinces hit hardest by the floods. This vital funding is intended to provide swift relief and assist in the initial stages of rebuilding.
A Warning from Science
This devastating event has prompted scientists to reiterate warnings about the growing impact of climate change. They note that such extreme weather events, including periods of intense rainfall leading to severe flooding, are becoming more frequent and more intense. The rainfall in the worst-affected areas exceeded 1.9 metres, causing rivers to swell past their historic high-water marks.
