Northern Vietnam Faces Historic Floods Killing Eight, Forcing Thousands to Evacuate

Northern Vietnam is experiencing historic and record-breaking floods, particularly in Thai Nguyen Province, where floodwaters have submerged entire neighborhoods up to the second floor, cutting off power, water, and communications. The floods, worsened by recent heavy rains and remnants of typhoon Matmo, have caused at least eight deaths and left thousands stranded, with widespread evacuations in various provinces including Bac Ninh, Lang Son, and Cao Bang. Emergency efforts involve mobilizing tens of thousands of military personnel and thousands of boats, as well as air-dropping supplies to isolated residents. In Thai Nguyen and surrounding areas, residents have been forced to seek refuge on rooftops or higher floors, while aid teams distribute essentials in accessible areas. The rising Cau River has reached unprecedented levels, surpassing previous flood records and prompting authorities to open floodgates in some locations to protect main dikes, although this has temporarily isolated several villages. Authorities are prioritizing the evacuation of vulnerable populations and have converted schools into shelters, while relief operations continue amid ongoing risks of further flooding and infrastructure damage.