(Photo: VOV) |
Over the past two days, heavy rainfall has resulted in dozens of landslides and road subsidence incidents across Lai Chau province. More than 17,000 cubic meters of earth and rock fell onto national and provincial highways, temporarily cutting off transportation in multiple areas. In Lai Chau city, flooding and landslides were reported in Doan Ket, Quyet Tien, and San Thang commune.
Preliminary statistics show that as of Sunday afternoon, more than 140 homes were affected, more than 100 hectares of rice fields were inundated or washed away, and nearly 60 hectares of fishponds were breached or had overflowed. Livestock losses were also reported.
Local authorities acted swiftly to assist residents with evacuations, clean-up, and the relocation of belongings to safe areas.
Major Dinh Van Tuong, Deputy Head of the Department of Firefighting and Rescue of the Lai Chau provincial police, said: “We deployed 30 officers and soldiers along with rescue equipment to Ban Giang commune. Upon arrival, we divided into teams with boats, life jackets, food, and drinking water to reach isolated households. All residents have now been safely evacuated, and efforts are underway to help them recover from the aftermath of the flood.”
In Lao Cai province, heavy rainfall on Sunday caused flooding in Muong Khuong town. Initial reports indicate that approximately 20 hectares of crops were submerged, including newly sown rice paddies and spring maize ready for harvest. In some areas, rising water levels disrupted travel and daily activities.
The Muong Khuong district Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Search and Rescue coordinated with local authorities to assess damage and implement emergency response measures.
Dao Van Chien, Vice Chairman of the Muong Khuong town People’s Committee, said: “We mobilized police officers, militia, and young civil servants to help residents whose homes were flooded. As soon as the water receded, we deployed teams to assist with cleaning the houses.”
In Son La province, torrential rains also impacted Nam Ty commune in Song Ma district on Sunday, damaging rice fields and affecting several homes. Local authorities have begun implementing support measures for affected families.
Nguyen Tien Hai, Vice Chairman of the Song Ma district People’s Committee, said: “The district’s Disaster Prevention and Search and Rescue Command has been updating forecasts and issuing warnings to local communities, especially in areas prone to flash floods and landslides. Public awareness and preparedness have been key priorities. In Nam Ty, we are currently assessing the extent of the damage and mobilizing resources to help residents recover.”
While supporting residents in recovering from the immediate impacts of the storms, provincial authorities are enhancing early warning systems and improving disaster forecasting to ensure greater preparedness and protect the lives and property of people in vulnerable regions.