Severe weather has plagued Vietnam over the past few days as heavy rain continues to impact various regions, leading to significant disruptions and hazards. According to the local traffic police department, the prolonged rainfall has resulted in landslides on several roads, particularly along the Khánh Lê Pass connecting Nha Trang and Đà Lạt. Thượng tá Nguyễn Văn Tiếp, head of the traffic police in Lâm Đồng, indicated on December 15, "Due to the heavy rains lasting several days, landslides occurred this morning on the Khánh Lê Pass. The affected areas are located at km42, km54, and km59, causing severe traffic disruptions on National Route 27C." Authorities have swiftly responded to the situation by limiting access to the affected route, urging both locals and tourists to exercise caution.
Meanwhile, severe rainfall has also hit Quảng Ngãi province, where meteorological reports indicate rainfall exceeding 260 mm, particularly in mountainous areas. A spokesperson from the Quảng Ngãi Meteorological Center stated, "Over the past 24 hours, regions have experienced moderate to heavy rain, especially noticeable above 260 mm at certain locations. Due to this rainfall, river levels have risen rapidly, prompting emergency flooding advisories on rivers such as the Vệ and Trà Câu." The water levels of the Vệ River have reached 3.4 m and the Trà Câu River at 5.34 m, both of which are approaching emergency thresholds. Flooding has become particularly problematic for lower-lying areas.
The continuous rain has exacerbated concerns over landslides and flooding, particularly affecting hillside and riverside communities. There is now heightened alert for landslides and flash floods, especially at sites prone to such hazards. Chu Văn An, Deputy Director at the Khánh Hòa Department of Transport, confirmed, "The landslide caused road blockage on National Route 27C, and our team is assessing the scene for safety and recovery efforts. Fortunately, there have been no fatalities reported. The heavy rains are washing away soil and debris, posing risks to surrounding infrastructure and daily transportation." This highlights the urgent need for local governments to manage risks associated with extreme weather.
With predictions of continued rain over the next few hours, the forecast indicates more rain is expected across provinces from Quảng Trị to Ninh Thuận, with rainfall totals typically ranging from 20 to 40 mm, with isolated areas experiencing even higher totals. Improved monitoring and notifications from regional weather stations suggest the impending risk of floods across several districts, with Cam Lâm, Diên Khánh, and Nha Trang being mentioned as hot spots.
Officials warn of the potential impacts on agriculture and infrastructure, urging communities to prepare adequately. According to environmental authorities, "Due to the influence of cold air interacting with upper wind conditions, from early morning to late evening on December 15, regions from Quảng Trị to Ninh Thuận should brace for more rain, with possible thunderstorms, making conditions treacherous." Robust measures should be instituted to protect both lives and property.
Social infrastructure has faced challenges as transportation systems are strained, and everyday activities of residents have also been disrupted significantly. Flooding and blockages on key roads are impacting access to services, prompting local councils to initiate public safety announcements about the current weather conditions and hazards associated with landslides.
The global climate crisis is likely to exacerbate these incidences of severe weather. Recent patterns observed suggest greater rainfall and storms could become more commonplace, challenging Vietnam’s disaster management protocols. Local governments must prioritize preparedness, urging citizens to remain vigilant against adverse conditions, and engage educational campaigns about natural disaster readiness.
Authorities continue to monitor the weather closely, checking river levels and landslide susceptibilities to enforce quick responses as they develop. Recommendations from weather stations include avoiding travel through at-risk areas, particularly Khánh Lê Pass and other sites susceptible to landslides.
The after-effects of these severe weather events resonate beyond immediate physical dangers, carrying potential long-term impacts on agricultural productivity, safety of transport routes, and even the mental well-being of affected populations. Local officials remain on high alert as they navigate emergency responses and community safety measures. Ending remarks from local officials reiterated the importance of preparedness and the need to heed weather advisories. This situation remains dynamic, and vigilance is more necessary than ever as the region prepares for continued rain and higher risks associated with flooding.
