Prolonged heavy rains from super typhoon Yagi, which struck northern Vietnam last weekend, have persisted over the past few days and are expected to continue, triggering flooding, flash floods, and landslides in the region, the National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting reported on Monday.
Torrential rains have covered most northern provinces and cities, especially mountainous areas, with precipitation of over 200mm recorded from 7:00 pm on Sunday till 8:00 am on Monday, the center said.
The highest rainfall was measured at 324.2mm in Yen Bai, followed by 281.6mm in Thai Nguyen, 243.4mm in Lao Cai, and 230.4mm in Ha Giang.
Such heavy rains are forecast to continue from now through Tuesday.
This weather pattern came after super typhoon Yagi landed in the Quang Ninh Province-Hai Phong City area on Saturday and then swept through many other northern provinces.
The powerful storm, along with the resultant flash floods and landslides, left 26 people dead or missing and injured 273 others by Monday morning, according to the Vietnam News Agency.
Over the next two days, the northwestern region is expected to experience heavy rains with rainfall ranging from 50mm to 300mm, while the northeastern region and north-central Thanh Hoa Province will see moderate to heavy rains between 40mm and 150mm.
These downpours pose high risks of inundation, flash floods, and landslides to Thanh Hoa and a dozen northern provinces and cities, including Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Son La, Hoa Binh, Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Bac Kan, Thai Nguyen, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Quang Ninh, and Bac Giang, the center warned.
In addition, water levels in many northern rivers have been rising rapidly, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
During rainy and flood days, people should avoid approaching rivers and streams, strictly follow warnings about flash floods and landslides, and limit travel unless necessary, Thanh Nien (Young People) newspaper cited Hoang Van Dai, deputy director of the center.
“When traveling on national highways, it is necessary to observe the surrounding areas for precautionary signs of subsidence, cracks, and landslides to ensure safety,” Dai said.
Residents should look for unusual signs, such as cracks in walls or floors in their homes or nearby buildings, to address potential issues promptly, he said.
Dai recommended that people regularly check weather forecasts to stay informed about warnings for heavy rain and other hazardous conditions, allowing them to respond effectively and minimize potential damage.
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