From July 21-27, storm No. 3-triggered circulation and a tropical convergence zone dumped heavy rain across northern Vietnam, sparking flash floods, landslides, and ground subsidence in Son La.

A second deluge from July 31 to August 1, coupled with surging Ma river levels, driven by upstream downpours in Dien Bien province and water discharges from Muong Luan 1+2 and Song Ma 3 hydropower plants, triggered further flooding and landslides across 12 riverside communes.

The disasters left five dead, one missing, and four injured, with all injured now in stable condition, officials said.

Long urged the provincial authorities to prioritise aid for the victims’ families, focusing on restoring livelihoods and ensuring stable resettlement.

He also called for stronger guidance at the commune and ward levels to track weather patterns and adopt proactive measures to curb future losses.

On the occasion, he presented 96 relief packages to households in Chieng So and Huoi Mot communes.

The Military Region 2 Command donated two tonnes of dried food to victims, while the provincial Party Committee, People’s Committee, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee also delivered aid to affected villages./.VNA