Record Rainfall Submerges Historic Hue Hoi An, Triggers Major Flooding In Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is experiencing unprecedented flooding due to record-breaking rainfall, with the historic cities of Hue and Hoi An severely submerged. Hue recorded over 1,000 millimeters of rain in 24 hours, the highest ever in Vietnam, causing the Perfume River to rise dramatically and flood much of the ancient city, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. The floods have displaced thousands, forced evacuations of residents and around 40,000 tourists, and isolated rural communities, while also disrupting critical infrastructure such as the rail line between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Authorities have used boats for rescues and placed heavy train carriages on a vulnerable bridge to prevent collapse. Experts attribute the intensifying storms and extreme weather to climate change, noting Vietnam's vulnerability due to its large population living in high-risk flood areas. The ongoing crisis highlights the challenges posed by climate change and severe weather to the region's communities and economy.