Heavy mud and water have caused traffic blockages on National Highway 12 in Điện Biên Province. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Torrential rains in early August have unleashed devastating landslides and floods across Vietnam's northern mountainous provinces, claiming nine lives and injuring seven others, according to the Dyke Management and Disaster Prevention and Control Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The severe weather has caused extensive damage, with 121 houses damaged or submerged and ten homes needing urgent relocation.

Agricultural losses are significant, with approximately 95 hectares of rice fields and 21 hectares of other crops affected. Nearly 2,330 livestock and poultry have perished.

Infrastructure has also been heavily impacted, with damage to one irrigation facility, two canals, 40 electric poles, and 170 transportation routes, leaving a total of 58,810 cubic metres of debris. Additionally, two hectares of aquaculture have been disrupted.

In Điện Biên Province, landslides along National Highway 12 have led to localised blockages and hazardous conditions.

A large crack in Tà Cáng village, Điện Biên Phủ City, forced two households to relocate due to the risk of landslides.

Government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Lê Thành Long, have inspected the hardest-hit areas in Sơn La and Điện Biên provinces, offering support to affected families.

To assist with recovery efforts, the government has allocated VNĐ10 billion (US$421,000) to Điện Biên and Sơn La provinces.

The Việt Nam Red Cross Society has provided emergency relief worth over VNĐ440 million ($18,500) to support about 380 people severely affected by floods in the two provinces.

Healthcare efforts include the establishment of a mobile health station in Mường Pồn commune, Điện Biên province and free medical examinations in Mường Bú commune, Sơn La province.

Hà Nội City has also provided VNĐ10 billion to Hà Giang, Sơn La, and Điện Biên provinces to assist in flood recovery efforts.

According to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, from August 11 to 17, the northern region is expected to continue experiencing thunderstorms, with heavy rain in some areas.

The Central Highlands and southern regions may experience scattered showers and thunderstorms from around 10 August, potentially accompanied by whirlwinds, lightning, and strong gusts.

The Dyke Management and Disaster Prevention Department urges cities and provinces to implement proactive disaster prevention and recovery measures, ensuring the safety of residents and minimising property damage.

Local authorities are instructed to review and complete disaster response plans, identify high-risk areas and allocate necessary funds for timely disaster recovery efforts. — VNS