Torrential downpours and flash floods have hit the northern province of Lao Cai, leaving 12 dead and missing.

Photo: TTXVN

The Bat Xat District office for flood and storm prevention and search and rescue reported that the missing people included three from Coc San Commune, three from Tong Sanh Commune and three from Phin Ngan Commune. They have yet to be identified.

The office warned residents to move to higher ground to avoid floods and landslides as heavy rains struck a vast area in the province early on August 5 and triggered flash floods across the locality.

Torrential rain upstream of the Hong (Red) River and Chay River made water levels in the portions running through Lao Cai Province swell, endangering those living along the rivers.

Photos: Bao Long

VNN/VOV/VNA