Vietnam is grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods and landslides that have claimed at least 90 lives and left 12 people missing. The relentless downpour, which began in late October, has wreaked havoc across the south-central regions, particularly in the mountainous province of Dak Lak, where more than 60 fatalities have been recorded since November 16.

Widespread Destruction and Economic Impact

The floods have inflicted significant damage, with 186,000 homes affected and over three million livestock lost. The Vietnamese government estimates the economic toll at approximately 8.98 trillion dong ($341 million). The disaster has also disrupted power supplies, leaving 258,000 people without electricity, and obstructed major transport routes, complicating relief efforts.

Emergency Response and Relief Efforts

In response to the crisis, military and police units have been deployed to assist in the hardest-hit areas, including Quang Ngai, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Khanh Hoa, and Lam Dong provinces. Rescuers have been working tirelessly, using boats to reach stranded residents and delivering essential supplies to flooded hospitals, where medical staff and patients have been surviving on limited resources.

Record Rainfall and Climate Change Concerns

The region has experienced unprecedented rainfall, with some areas recording over 1.9 meters in a week, surpassing levels not seen since 1993. The Ba River in Dak Lak and the Cai River in Khanh Hoa have reached new highs, exacerbating the flooding. Experts warn that human-driven climate change is making such extreme weather events more frequent and severe, posing ongoing challenges for Vietnam.

Government and International Response

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, who chaired an emergency meeting from South Africa, emphasized the need for coordinated relief efforts. The international community has also been urged to support Vietnam in its recovery and adaptation strategies to mitigate future climate-related disasters.