Updated information from disaster authorities in Vietnam reveals that floods and landslides have now claimed 102 lives in central provinces since the heavy rain began 2 weeks ago.
As of 19 October, 48 people had died in Quang Tri Province and 27 in Thua Thien Hue. At least 178,000 homes have been submerged in floodwaters. Over 90,000 people have evacuated their homes and moved to safer areas in Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien-Hue provinces.
According to the Vietnam Red Cross Society, the floods are some of the worst seen in decades and are dealing a staggering blow to the livelihoods of millions of people already reeling from hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some areas in central provinces have seen staggering amounts of rainfall since 05 October. In a period from 05 to 11 October, Huong Linh in Quang Tri province recorded 1,520 mm of rain and A Luoi in Thua Thien-Hue 1,888 mm.
More heavy rain has fallen since then. In a 24 hour period to 17 October, Huong Hoa District of Quang Tri saw 582 mm of rain and Huong Linh in Quang Tri 764 mm. The following day Quang Ninh District in Quang Binh Province recorded 523 mm and Ky Anh in Ha Tinh Province 540 mm.
More heavy rain is likely as Tropical Storm Saudel makes its way over the Philippines westwards to Vietnam over the coming days.
Satellite Maps of Floods in Central Vietnam
The following map illustrate satellite-detected surface waters in central parts of Vietnam, produced using modified Copernicus Sentinel Data by UNITAR – UNOSAT.
