On September 20, Bui Van Khanh, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Hoa Binh province, signed the decision to declare a natural disaster emergency in the Rang village, Cao Son commune (Da Bac district) and Rai village, Tuan Dao commune (Lac Son district) areas.

The announcement follows the appearance of large cracks and subsidence in these areas, which have intensified the risk of landslides. In Rang village, a major crack spanning 500 meters has appeared on Ao Ech hill, posing a severe threat to the surrounding community. The local government has evacuated 30 households, totaling 126 people, to safety.

In Rai village, prolonged rains following Typhoon No. 3 have caused extensive cracking and subsidence. Cracks ranging from 1 to 3 meters deep and up to 800 meters long have formed, affecting a total area of 7 hectares. The situation has impacted 111 households, with 60 families—comprising 278 people—urgently relocated due to the imminent threat.

The subsidence has already caused severe damage to homes, with foundations sinking and walls cracking. Authorities estimate that if a full landslide occurs, it could involve up to 8 million cubic meters of soil and rock.

The affected areas are still experiencing ground movement, with cracks continuing to widen. Any additional rain could saturate the soil, increasing the likelihood of a landslide.

In light of the escalating danger, Chairman Bui Van Khanh has directed local governments in Lac Son and Da Bac districts to ensure that all evacuated residents are provided with stable living conditions. Emergency personnel are on standby, monitoring the cracks and potential landslide zones, while warning signs and barriers have been erected to keep people from returning to unsafe areas.

This announcement follows similar emergency declarations in Son La province, where severe rainfall has caused landslides, resulting in significant damage and the displacement of residents. In Muong La district, one person has gone missing, and about 90 homes have been destroyed or severely damaged.

Anh Tam