Lai Chau has ordered round-the-clock disaster response duty throughout the break.

At 3:31 a.m. on August 29, the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting issued warnings of flash floods, landslides and ground subsidence caused by heavy rain, flooding or strong runoff in Lai Chau, Lao Cai and Tuyen Quang.

Over the following six hours, all three provinces faced the risk of flash floods along small rivers and streams, as well as landslides and ground subsidence on steep slopes.

At 7:30 a.m. the same day, the weather agency issued further warnings for Lai Chau and Lao Cai.

In Lai Chau, areas under warning included Ban Bo, Hong Thu, Khun Ha, Muong Khoa, Muong Than, Nam Cuoi, Nam Ma, Nam So, Nam Tam, Tan Phong Ward, Pac Ta, Pu Sam Cap, Tan Uyen, Than Uyen and Tua Sin Chai.

In Lao Cai, areas identified as being at risk included Nam Chay, Vo Lao, Ban Ho, Chau Que, Coc San, Gia Phu, Khao Mang, Minh Luong, Muong Bo, Nam Xe, Cam Duong Ward and Ta Van.

Ahead of the holiday, the Lai Chau Provincial People’s Committee instructed agencies and local authorities to proactively prepare for heavy rain, flash floods, landslides, thunderstorms, strong winds and other unusual weather conditions.

Disaster prevention and response units were ordered to maintain 24-hour duty from August 29 through September 2, closely monitor weather forecasts and issue timely warnings to people living in high-risk areas.

In Tuyen Quang, the chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee also instructed departments, agencies, communes and wards on August 28 to strengthen measures to prevent and respond to heavy rain, storms, flooding and landslides.

Authorities were told to prepare personnel, vehicles, equipment, supplies and response plans to minimize potential loss of life and property damage.

According to forecasts, northern Vietnam could see moderate rain, with heavy rain and thunderstorms in some areas, from the evening of August 29 through September 1.

Weather authorities warned that flash floods and landslides could threaten lives, disrupt transportation and damage residential and economic infrastructure.

Duc Phong